Cats Drooling While Eating: Possible Causes and Solutio
1. Excessive saliva production in cats is often a sign of underlying issues. Common causes include swelling of the salivary glands, irritation, infections, and the presence of ulcers or growths in the mouth. Other conditions, such as obstructions in the upper digestive tract or poisoning, can also lead to a cat drooling excessively.
2. It's not uncommon for cats to develop dental issues like tartar and gingivitis. Tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis, which in turn reduces the stimulation to the gums. Therefore, if a cat over the age of four is drooling, it's essential to first check for dental tartar. Paying attention to dental problems can also help in identifying more serious underlying diseases.
3. Acute gastritis can stimulate the cat's salivary glands, leading to excessive drooling. This condition can be a trigger for certain illnesses, so it's important to recall what the cat has eaten recently.
4. Some medications can cause an increase in saliva production, which may lead to drooling in cats. This is often a side effect of the medication and should not cause undue concern. If necessary, consult with a veterinarian for advice.
5. Chronic kidney failure is a significant cause of drooling in cats and should not be overlooked. In such cases, the primary focus is not on treating the drooling itself but on addressing the severe and lifethreatening nature of the chronic kidney failure.
6. A deficiency in niacin (Vitamin B3) can lead to excessive drooling in cats. Niacin is a member of the Bvitamin family. When cats suffer from a niacin deficiency due to various reasons, they may experience mouth ulcers, bloodtinged saliva, and an unpleasant odor in their breath.
Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on cats drooling, you can read our article "Cat Fever and Drooling" by clicking here.