Washing

On awakening, the cat stretches its entire body length in a sinuous flow of movement, flexing each muscle and claw. It usually yawns widely, then is instantly alert and ready for any eventuality. If it has been sleeping in sunlight or under a lamp, the animal may well start its complicated washing routine for it appears that the action of light and warmth on the coat of the cat stimulates the washing reflex action.

Tongue and paws are employed by the cat in washing itself. The tongue is well designed for the purpose being covered with tiny projections called papillae, causing it to have a roughened, comb-like action when used to clean the fur. Licking its favourite paw until it is quite damp, the cat passes this over its face and head, into and behind the ears, across the eyes and down the nose. Then the other paw is licked well and used in the same fashion on the opposite side of the head and face. Each shoulder and foreleg is then licked in turn, followed by the flanks, the genital area, the hindlegs and finally the entire length of the tail.

The cat's rough tongue is used as brush, comb and sponge for cleaning and grooming its coat. To wash its face the cat licks each forepaw in turn before passing around the eye, over and behind the ear and along the jaw.