why would my cat be drooling

3 min read 15-04-2025

Cats are famously clean creatures, meticulously grooming themselves throughout the day. So, when your feline friend starts drooling excessively, it's a clear sign something isn't right. Excessive drooling, or hypersalivation, in cats can stem from various causes, ranging from mild discomfort to serious medical conditions. This comprehensive guide will explore the potential reasons behind your cat's drooling and what you should do.

Common Reasons for Cat Drooling

Several factors can trigger increased saliva production in cats. Let's delve into the most frequent culprits:

1. Nausea and Gastrointestinal Issues

One of the most common reasons for drooling is nausea. If your cat is feeling unwell, it might drool as a reflexive response. This could be due to:

Food poisoning: Spoiled food or contaminated treats can cause stomach upset and excessive drooling.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): This chronic condition causes inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to discomfort and potentially drooling.
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can also lead to nausea and hypersalivation.
Kidney disease: Kidney failure can cause gastrointestinal issues, including nausea and subsequent drooling.

Signs to watch for: In addition to drooling, look for vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

2. Oral Problems

Dental issues are another frequent cause of drooling in cats. Pain or discomfort in their mouth can lead to increased saliva production. This includes:

Dental disease: Periodontal disease, tooth abscesses, and broken teeth are all potential culprits.
Oral tumors: Growths in the mouth can cause pain and irritation, leading to excessive drooling.
Foreign objects: A piece of food or another object lodged in the mouth can also trigger drooling.

Signs to watch for: Bad breath, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, and redness or swelling of the gums.

3. Neurological Issues

Neurological problems can sometimes manifest as drooling. This is often due to difficulty swallowing or controlling saliva. Conditions to consider include:

Stroke: A stroke can affect the nervous system, impacting the cat's ability to swallow properly.
Brain tumors: Similar to strokes, tumors can disrupt neurological function, causing drooling.
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP): This viral disease can affect the nervous system and cause various neurological signs, including drooling.

Signs to watch for: Changes in behavior, gait abnormalities, seizures, and disorientation.

4. Medications and Toxins

Certain medications can cause drooling as a side effect. Similarly, exposure to toxins can also lead to increased saliva production.

Signs to watch for: Consider if you've recently started your cat on new medication or if they've had access to anything potentially toxic.

5. Anxiety and Stress

While less common, stress and anxiety can sometimes trigger drooling. A particularly stressful event or an ongoing anxiety issue could be the underlying cause.

Signs to watch for: Changes in behavior, hiding, increased vocalization, and other signs of stress.

6. Poisoning

Ingestion of poisonous substances like certain plants, pesticides, or cleaning products can result in drooling.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

If your cat is drooling excessively, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian. Drooling itself isn't a disease, but it's a symptom of an underlying issue that needs to be diagnosed and treated. Seek immediate veterinary attention if:

The drooling is sudden and severe.
Your cat is also exhibiting other concerning symptoms, such as vomiting, lethargy, or difficulty breathing.
You suspect your cat has ingested a toxin.

Diagnosing the Cause of Drooling

Your vet will conduct a thorough physical examination, including checking your cat's mouth, teeth, and gums. They may also order blood tests, urine tests, and X-rays to determine the underlying cause. In some cases, more advanced diagnostics like ultrasound or CT scans might be necessary.

Treatment

Treatment for excessive drooling depends entirely on the underlying cause. It might involve medication to treat an infection, dental cleaning, surgery to remove a foreign object, or management of a chronic condition.

Remember, observing your cat's overall behavior and health is vital. Don't hesitate to seek professional veterinary help if you notice any concerning changes. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to ensuring your furry friend's well-being.