50 Too-Cute Pics Of Animals Blepping, Loafing, And Just Being Delightfully Derpy

Urban Dictionary, the web’s most popular slang resource, defines the word "blep" as, "the act of a cat sticking its tongue out slightly without realizing it, often for long periods of time." The term was first coined over ten years ago by the creator of the r/Blep subreddit, BillohRly, who also came up with the variations "blop" and "blup" to describe the same behavior in other animals.

But just why do cats blep? There are actually several reasons. When cats stick their tongues out, they are literally getting a better sense of their environment by analyzing scents. This is part of the Flehmen response, which aids them in "smelling" through taste when encountering something unusual, like new smells on your shoes or clothes.

Bleps also happen when a cat is deeply relaxed, especially during sleep. Their jaws may slacken, letting their tongue slip out, a sign they feel completely safe and comfortable. Certain breeds like Persians or Himalayans are more prone to blepping because of their facial structure, which makes keeping their tongue inside a bit more challenging.

Sometimes, blepping can be a sign of dental discomfort, nausea, or even stress. If your cat bleps frequently alongside symptoms like drooling or trouble eating, it may be a sign of a health issue that warrants a trip to the vet - no cat’s favorite activity.

If you’ve ever owned a cat or known someone who does, you’ve probably seen the adorable phenomenon known as “cat loaf.” This cozy position, where a cat tucks in its paws and transforms into a fluffy bread-like shape, has captivated feline lovers everywhere. But have you ever wondered why cats do this?

The answer lies in both their feline physiology and instincts. Cats are naturally inclined to conserve body heat, and the loaf position helps them do just that. By tucking in their paws and tail, they minimize heat loss, keeping their core temperature stable. This is especially common in colder environments, where a good loaf can make all the difference in staying warm and comfortable.

Beyond warmth, loafing is also a sign that a cat feels safe and relaxed. When a cat is in a full loaf, it means they’re at ease but still ready to react if needed. Unlike when they’re sprawled out and totally vulnerable, a loaf position allows them to spring into action if something unexpected happens. It’s a perfect balance of relaxation and vigilance.

Interestingly, a cat’s loafing style can reveal a lot about their mood and health. A tight, compact loaf often means a cat is feeling cozy and secure, while a looser loaf with one paw slightly out might indicate they’re just resting lightly. However, if a cat is loafing with a tense expression or awkward posture, it could be a sign of discomfort or illness worth visiting a vet for, just in case.

All things considered, we’re assuming that when a cat bleploafs, like some of the kitties in this list, it’s at the height of comfy derpyness, and you’re basically forced to take a pic (or, let’s face it, a few) and slap it all over your socials. And who could blame you? Your feline companion could just be the next meme, after all.

What did you think of the animals blepping in this list? Which cute creature does it best? Upvote your favorites and feel free to comment on the ones that made you go, “Awwww!”