Cats Drooling: Causes and What to Do
When you notice your feline friend has an excessive amount of saliva, it's important to consider the possible reasons. Here's a guide to help you identify the potential causes:
Dental and Oral Issues: Problems like dental disease and cavities can lead to excessive drooling. Excessive tartar buildup can irritate the inside of your cat's lips, causing them to drool. To check for this, pull your cat's lips back towards the ears, revealing the teeth. Look for tartar that might resemble concrete or brown deposits, and inspect the gums for redness or bleeding.
If dental or oral issues are the culprit, it's best to consult a veterinarian for professional cleaning and to establish a regular dental care routine. Additionally, your vet can examine for gingivitis, oral ulcers, and tumors.
Organ Diseases: Just like humans, as cats age, they are more prone to health issues, some of which can cause increased drooling, such as liver or kidney diseases. Regular checkups as your cat gets older can help catch and treat these conditions early.
Oral Foreign Objects/ Swallowing Issues: During play, a thin string or toy might get caught in a cat's mouth or wrap around their tongue. This can cause drooling. Check your cat's mouth for any foreign objects. If you find one, you can try to remove it, but be cautious—use tools if necessary, as you want to avoid injury to your cat's teeth and mouth.
Another possibility is that your cat might be drooling because something in their mouth tastes unpleasant, like a partially swallowed pill. They may also have difficulty swallowing rough or large pieces of food due to their anatomy. Sometimes, these items can't be expelled and remain in the mouth, leading to drooling.
Poisoning: Cats can be poisoned by certain plants, such as tulips, azaleas, and chrysanthemums, as well as by chemicals like pesticides. These substances can cause toxicity and drooling in cats. Keep such items out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
Heatstroke: High temperatures, direct sunlight, and lack of water can lead to heatstroke in cats, which can also cause drooling. Ensure your cat has a cool, shaded environment during hot weather and plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated.
Upper Respiratory Infections: Excessive drooling might be a sign of an upper respiratory infection, especially in cats living with other pets. Seek veterinary care for diagnosis and treatment, as selfmedication can be harmful.
Stress and Anxiety: Panting with the mouth open is a sign of stress or anxiety, which can lead to drooling. If your cat is drooling due to a specific trigger, such as a car ride, it may not be a cause for concern. However, always be mindful of your cat's stress levels and provide comfort when needed.
Remember, while these points provide a starting point for understanding why your cat might be drooling, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
