Causes of Cats Drooling: What You Need to Know!

When your cat suddenly starts drooling, it might catch you off guard and raise concerns. Cats can dribble for a variety of reasons, some of which might be fleeting, while others may necessitate professional medical attention. Let's delve into the causes of cat drooling and how to address them effectively.

Understanding the Causes of Cat Drooling

I. Physiological Drooling

Cats may naturally produce more saliva in certain situations, such as when they see food, smell fish, or become extremely excited. This type of drooling is usually temporary and doesn't pose a significant threat to their health.

II. Pathological Drooling

1. Oral Health Issues:

Oral Ulcers: Cats may dribble due to oral pain, often accompanied by a decrease in appetite.

Dental Calculus: Cats that don't receive regular dental care can develop dental calculus, which can刺激 saliva production.

Gingivitis: Inflammation and swelling of the gums can also lead to drooling.

2. Gastrointestinal Disorders:

Gastritis: Cats with stomach discomfort may dribble, along with symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.

Esophageal Obstruction: A foreign object stuck in the esophagus can cause swallowing difficulties and drooling.

3. Poisoning:

Cats that ingest toxic substances, such as cleaning agents or medications, may experience oral discomfort and dribbling.

4. Neurological Disorders:

Facial nerve damage, like facial paralysis, can result in an inability to control saliva, leading to drooling.

5. Other Conditions:

Cats with kidney or liver diseases may also dribble as a symptom.

How to Respond to Cat Drooling

1. Observe the Symptoms:

Pay close attention to your cat's drooling, noting if it's accompanied by other signs such as loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea.

2. Maintain Oral Hygiene:

Regularly brush your cat's teeth to keep their mouth clean and reduce the risk of dental issues.

3. Seek Veterinary Care:

If your cat's drooling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

4. Treat Oral Issues:

For conditions like oral ulcers or stomatitis, medications such as Lysine spray or Metronidazole tablets can be prescribed to reduce inflammation.

5. Clean the Mouth:

If drooling is due to food particles or dental calculus, professional dental cleaning, possibly with ultrasonic scaling, may be necessary.

6. Ensure Diet Safety:

Feed your cat a balanced diet and avoid giving them toxic or expired food.

7. Provide a Comfortable Environment:

Create a serene and comfortable living space for your cat to reduce stress.

In summary, cat drooling can stem from numerous causes, and it's essential to be vigilant and respond promptly. If you're worried about your cat's drooling, don't hesitate to seek veterinary advice to ensure their health and wellbeing.