From Meowing to Burping: Can Cats Burp?

One aspect of cats’ behavior that often intrigues and entertains people is their vocalizations—meows, purrs, hisses, and growls. And then there is a lesser-known aspect of feline behavior that remains shrouded in mystery: burping.

While some veterinarians maintain that cats can’t burp, others say they can.

This article from Webvet aims to explain the mystery behind cat burping, why it happens, and what it could mean for your pet.

Feline Digestive System and Anatomy

A cat's digestive system is a complex network of organs that perform a wide array of processes, just like ours. The system enables your cat to break down and absorb the nutrients from the food they eat.

• It all starts with the mouth, where cats use their specialized teeth and tongue to capture and manipulate their prey (or the snacks and food we give them). From there, the food travels down the esophagus, a muscular tube that transports food to the stomach.
• In the stomach, the food mixes with digestive juices and is churned into a semi-liquid substance called chyme. The chyme then moves into the small intestine, where the majority of nutrient absorption takes place.
• Finally, any undigested material enters the large intestine, where water is absorbed, and feces are formed before being eliminated through the rectum.

Comparison to Other Animals’ Digestive Systems

A cat’s digestive system has some differences when compared with the digestive systems of humans and other animals.

For instance:

• Herbivores have longer digestive tracts and specialized compartments, such as multiple stomachs or an enlarged cecum, to break down plant matter efficiently.
• Omnivores, including humans, have a wider range of digestive adaptations that allow them to digest both plant and animal-based foods.
• In contrast, a cat's digestive system is adapted for consuming and digesting a diet primarily composed of animal tissue.

Here’s where things become interesting, and burping comes into play. Many features of the feline digestive system can trigger burping.

One key aspect is the presence of the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscular ring that acts as a barrier between the stomach and the esophagus. This sphincter helps prevent gastric reflux, reducing the likelihood of regurgitation and burping.

The Science of Feline Burping: Can Cats Burp?

Burping, also known as eructation, is a process that involves the release of gas from the stomach or upper digestive tract through the mouth. It occurs when swallowed air or gasses produced during digestion accumulate and need to be expelled.


In humans, burping is typically a voluntary or involuntary reflex triggered by the relaxation of the upper esophageal sphincter and the subsequent expulsion of the gas. But when it comes to cats, things change:

• For one, the understanding of burping in cats is still quite limited, and the scientific research specifically focused on feline burping is scarce.
• There is a lack of consensus on whether cats can burp as humans do.
• Some vets and experts suggest that cats don’t burp in the same way humans do, while others speculate that cats may have a mechanism for releasing excess gas, but it may not be as audible or noticeable as human burping.

Further research is necessary to gain a more comprehensive understanding of cats' burp mechanisms and to clarify whether cats indeed burp and, if so, the extent to which it occurs.

The Frequency of Burps

Cat burping in everyday life is relatively rare, and it is not a behavior that is often seen in our feline companions. However, there are occasions where cat burping has been observed.

Some people have reported hearing soft, low-pitched sounds similar to a small burp coming from their cats after meals or when they are relaxed. These sounds are often subtle and may go unnoticed unless one is actively listening for them, or one is lucky enough to be around.

Here’s a compilation of common scenarios or reasons why cats may burp:

• Rapid Eating or Drinking. Cats that eat or drink rapidly may swallow air along with their food or water, increasing the chances of burping.
• Grooming Behaviors. Cats may swallow hair while grooming themselves, which can contribute to the accumulation of gas in their digestive system and potentially lead to burping.
• Active Behavior. Cats engaged in vigorous play sessions or activities that involve jumping, running, and pouncing may gulp air unintentionally, increasing the likelihood of burping.

Some other factors that might influence the frequency of burping, include:

• Diet. The composition of a cat's diet, such as the presence of gas-inducing ingredients or the use of certain types of food (wet vs. dry), can affect the production of gas in the digestive system and potentially impact burping frequency.
• Eating Habits. Factors like eating speed, portion size, and meal frequency can contribute to the ingestion of air and influence the likelihood of burping in cats.
• Underlying Health Conditions. Some gastrointestinal disorders, dietary intolerances, or digestive issues may increase the production of gas in a cat's digestive system, potentially leading to more frequent burping.
• Individual Features. Burping frequency can vary between individual cats due to differences in their digestive systems, temperament, and overall health. Some cats may naturally burp more frequently than others.

Keep in mind that feline burping, while occasionally observed, is not a cause for concern unless it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Or decreased appetite

If you’re concerned about your cat's burping frequency or notice any significant changes in your cat's behavior or health, consult a vet for a thorough evaluation.

Feature Photo by Inge Wallumrød/Pexels

FAQs