Tongue Rolling in Cattle: Causes, Behavioral Characteristics and Managemental Strategies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/ijapm.2026.42.02.09Keywords:
Conservation, Healers, Indigenous, Grassroots, Institutions, Livestock, Dairy, HealthAbstract
Tongue rolling is a commonly observed oral behavior in cattle, often associated with stress and dietary factors. It is characterized by rhythmic tongue movements, sometimes accompanied by excessive licking or air swallowing. While the precise cause remains unclear, research suggests that feeding constraints, confinement and oxidative stress may contribute to its occurrence. Certain breeds and age groups, particularly heifers show a higher prevalence of this behavior. Although it does not directly impair physiological functions, it is often considered as an indicator of welfare issues in intensive farming systems. Management approaches, including environmental enrichment, improved feeding strategies and reducing confinement stress, play a key role in minimizing the incidence of tongue rolling in cattle.
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