The intriguing term 'mlem' has entered popular culture to describe the characteristic sound pets make when they extend their tongues to lick. While the sound itself appears harmless, behavior experts emphasize that the act of licking, particularly if excessive, can be a crucial indicator of a pet's emotional state or physical health. Understanding the nuances behind this seemingly simple action can help pet owners ensure the well-being of their companions.
The Enigma of 'Mlem': Decoding Pet Licking Behaviors
In a fascinating exploration into the world of pet vocalizations and behaviors, recent discussions have centered around the internet-popularized term “mlem,” referring to the distinct sound a dog or cat produces while licking its nose, lips, or teeth. Despite its widespread use in online communities, this onomatopoeic word was largely unfamiliar to seasoned pet behavior specialists, including Joey Lusvardi, a certified cat behavior consultant at Class Act Cats, and Jessica Jacobson, a dog behavior expert at Dapper Dog Training. Stephen Quandt, a feline behavior consultant at Cat Behavior Help, initially mistook the term for something related to lemmings, highlighting its recent integration into common parlance.
The term “mlem” made its debut on Urban Dictionary in 2015 and was subsequently added to Dictionary.com's slang compendium in 2019, with its earliest recorded use traced to a 2015 meme on Imgur and Reddit. While experts agree that the “mlem” sound itself is typically an involuntary and benign action, the underlying licking behavior warrants closer attention. According to Jacobson, a dog’s repeated licking of its chops can be a symptom of stress or, conversely, a sign of relaxation, often seen in popular memes. Lusvardi notes that similar licking in cats might serve as a displacement behavior—a form of self-soothing in stressful situations—or simply indicate dental hygiene or the enjoyment of a recent meal.
Pet owners are advised to monitor any instances of excessive licking. Such behavior could be a subtle warning sign, particularly when encountering unfamiliar animals, suggesting a need for increased distance. Persistent or unusual licking patterns might signal deeper psychological or medical issues. Lusvardi cautions that unaddressed stress or discomfort leading to excessive licking can result in undesirable behaviors like aggression or litter box problems. Similarly, Quandt points out that over-grooming can indicate medical conditions, potentially leading to psychogenic alopecia, characterized by hair thinning or loss. He recounts a poignant case where a cat's excessive licking heralded a cancer diagnosis, underscoring the importance of veterinary consultation for any sudden behavioral changes.
Jacobson further explains that in dogs, excessive licking, especially combined with lip-licking and yawning, could point to stress, even when directed at their own genitalia in what she terms a “urogenital checkout.” Allergic reactions are another common cause for localized licking. However, she also highlights that some dogs may lick purely to gain their owner’s attention, advising owners to consider their own responses to avoid inadvertently reinforcing the behavior. Licking surfaces can also offer clues: while it might signify curiosity or taste preference, repetitive surface licking could indicate boredom, a cognitive issue, or even the ingestion of substances like cannabis products.
Ultimately, while the “mlem” sound is largely a humorous internet phenomenon, the act of licking itself remains a vital form of communication and a potential barometer of a pet’s health and emotional state. Attentive observation of the frequency and context of these licks, rather than just the sound, is key to understanding and responding to our pets' needs.
The insights into 'mlem' and pet licking behaviors serve as a valuable reminder for all pet guardians. It's easy to dismiss a quick lick as an adorable quirk, especially when influenced by lighthearted internet trends. However, this deeper understanding from veterinary and behavioral specialists underscores the profound importance of observing our animal companions closely. Every small gesture, every repetitive action, can be a silent plea or a subtle indicator of their inner world. This knowledge empowers us to move beyond superficial interpretations and engage in more proactive, compassionate care, ensuring our pets live healthier, happier lives.