Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 30, 2026

In Vivo Evaluation of the Mechanical and Viscoelastic Properties of the Rat Tongue
Published on: July 6, 2017
Function of tongue-playing of cattle in association with other behavioral and physiological characteristics
Toshie Ishiwata1, Katsuji Uetake, Yusuke Eguchi
1School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara-shi, Japan.
Abstract:
To study the function of tongue-playing of cattle, this study observed 71 Japanese Black x Holstein steers after feeding in 2 repetitive experiments. The number of steers who performed tongue-playing did not differ among the 3 levels of environmentally enriched pens. Most (90.6%) performances of tongue-playing terminated within 20 min. Frequency of tongue-playing positively correlated with the frequency of resting (r = 0.25, p < .05). Frequency of eating was lower in tongue-playing steers (n = 40) than in non-tongue-playing steers (n = 31; p < .05). Frequencies of self-grooming (p < .05), ruminating (p < .05), and lying ruminating (p < .01) were higher in tongue-playing steers. Plasma dopamine concentration was lower in tongue-playing steers (p < .05). In conclusion, tongue-playing that lasts only for a short time after feeding was induced by behavioral features of steers who rest more and eat hay less at the same time as they perform grooming and ruminating.
Related Concept Videos
Tongue
Anatomical Position in the Oral Cavity
The tongue is located within the oral cavity, also known as the mouth. It is attached to the floor of the mouth by a fold of mucous membrane called the...
Communication
What is Behavior?
Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
Nonconscious Mimicry
The Tongue and Taste Buds

