It’s not uncommon to notice your cat drooling in certain situations. You might observe a bit of saliva when they are deeply relaxed, purring contentedly on your lap, or even kneading their paws like they did as kittens. However, you might also see drooling when your feline friend is stressed or seems unwell. So, when is cat salivation normal, and when should you be concerned? Understanding the different reasons behind cat drooling is crucial for every cat owner to ensure their pet’s well-being.
Normal Reasons for Cat Salivation: When Drooling Is Okay
Just like humans, cats can drool for perfectly normal reasons. Often, it’s a sign of contentment and relaxation. Here are some common scenarios where cat salivation is typically not a cause for alarm:
Relaxation and Contentment (Purring and Kneading)
One of the most common reasons for harmless cat drooling is pure bliss! When cats are purring and kneading, especially when they are being petted or are in a comfortable environment, drooling is often a sign of deep relaxation. This behavior is rooted in their kittenhood. Kittens knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow while nursing, creating a positive association with comfort and satisfaction. As adult cats, this kneading behavior, often accompanied by purring, can trigger that same relaxed state, leading to drooling. It’s essentially a throwback to those comforting kitten days. If your cat is happily purring and making biscuits on your favorite blanket and a little drool escapes, consider it a compliment – they are truly content!
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Anticipation of Food
While not as common as in dogs, some cats might drool when they anticipate food. If you notice your cat salivating around meal times or when they smell or see their favorite treats, it’s likely just a physiological response to the anticipation of eating something delicious. This type of drooling is usually temporary and stops once the food is gone. If your cat only drools when food is involved and is otherwise healthy, there’s generally no need to worry.
Temporary Stress or Fear
Similar to humans who might experience dry mouth or increased saliva when nervous, cats can also drool when they are stressed or fearful. Situations like car rides, vet visits, loud noises, or encounters with strangers can trigger a stress response that manifests as temporary drooling. This stress-related drooling is usually short-lived and resolves once the stressful situation is over. If your cat only drools during known stressful events and returns to normal afterward, it’s likely just a reaction to anxiety.
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When Cat Salivation Becomes a Concern: Abnormal Drooling
While occasional drooling can be normal, persistent or excessive salivation, especially if it’s not linked to contentment or food, might indicate an underlying health issue. This is considered abnormal drooling and warrants closer attention. It’s crucial to be aware of these signs and consult your veterinarian if you suspect abnormal drooling.
Oral and Dental Disease
Dental problems are a very common cause of excessive drooling in cats. Just like us, cats can suffer from various oral health issues, including gum disease (gingivitis, periodontitis), tooth resorption, mouth ulcers, dental infections, and oral injuries. These conditions can be painful and cause inflammation in the mouth, leading to increased saliva production. Other signs of dental disease in cats can include bad breath, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, and decreased appetite.
If you notice your cat drooling excessively along with any of these signs, a veterinary dental check-up is essential. Your vet will examine your cat’s mouth for any signs of dental disease and may recommend a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia, and possibly tooth extractions if necessary. Medications like antibiotics and pain relievers might also be prescribed to manage infection and discomfort.
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Nausea and Gastrointestinal Issues
Nausea is another significant reason for increased salivation in cats. When a cat feels nauseous, their body often produces more saliva as a protective mechanism to coat the esophagus and stomach lining. This can be triggered by various gastrointestinal issues, including infections, parasites, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, and even kidney disease, which can lead to toxin build-up and nausea. Other signs of nausea in cats may include vomiting, decreased appetite, lethargy, and hiding.
If your cat is drooling excessively and showing signs of nausea, it’s important to consult your veterinarian. They may perform blood tests, urine tests, and other diagnostic procedures to determine the underlying cause of the nausea and recommend appropriate treatment.
Foreign Objects in the Mouth
Sometimes, excessive drooling can be a sign that something is stuck in your cat’s mouth. Cats are curious creatures and may chew on or try to swallow things they shouldn’t, like string, yarn, small toy parts, or plant material. A foreign object lodged in the mouth can irritate the tissues and cause increased saliva production as the body attempts to flush it out or as a reaction to discomfort. You might also notice your cat pawing at their mouth, gagging, or having difficulty swallowing.
If you suspect your cat has something stuck in their mouth, try to gently examine their mouth if it’s safe to do so. However, if you see a string or any object protruding from their mouth, do not attempt to pull it out, especially if it’s string. It could be anchored further down in the digestive tract, and pulling it could cause serious internal damage. Instead, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Exposure to Toxins
Exposure to toxic substances can also lead to excessive salivation in cats. Cats can encounter toxins through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. Common toxins include poisonous plants, household cleaners, pesticides, certain medications, and toxic foods. Some topical flea and tick preventatives designed for dogs can also be toxic to cats and cause drooling if ingested or if the cat grooms the application site. Toxin exposure can irritate the mucous membranes in the mouth and trigger increased saliva production. Other signs of poisoning in cats can vary depending on the toxin but may include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.
If you suspect your cat has been exposed to a toxin, it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary care. Bring any suspected toxic substance with you to the vet to help them determine the best course of treatment.
Trauma and Injuries
Injuries to the mouth or face can also cause excessive drooling. This could be due to direct trauma, such as a fall, a car accident, or a fight with another animal. Cats who chew on electrical cords can suffer burns in their mouths, leading to drooling. Even minor injuries to the mouth, like cuts or abrasions, can cause increased saliva production as the body attempts to heal and protect the damaged area. Depending on the severity of the trauma, you might also notice other signs like bleeding, swelling, pain, or difficulty eating.
If your cat is drooling excessively and you suspect they may have experienced some form of trauma, a veterinary examination is necessary to assess the extent of the injuries and provide appropriate treatment.
When to See a Vet for Cat Salivation
Knowing when to seek veterinary help for your drooling cat is essential. While some drooling is normal, err on the side of caution if you notice any of the following:
- Sudden onset of excessive drooling, especially if it’s not related to purring, kneading, or food.
- Drooling accompanied by other symptoms like bad breath, pawing at the mouth, difficulty eating, vomiting, lethargy, or changes in behavior.
- Drooling that is persistent and doesn’t resolve on its own.
- Any suspicion of toxin exposure or oral trauma.
Remember, cats are masters at hiding illness, and drooling can be an early sign of an underlying problem. When in doubt, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in your cat’s health and recovery. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet if you are concerned about your cat’s salivation – it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your feline companion’s well-being.
