Why Does My Cat Drool

If you’ve noticed your cat drooling, you might be wondering what’s causing this behavior. While occasional drooling can be normal for some cats, especially when they are relaxed or content, excessive or sudden drooling can indicate an underlying issue. This guide will explore the reasons why cats drool, what it means, and when you should be concerned.

Why Do Cats Drool?

Drooling in cats can be caused by a variety of reasons, including but not limited to the following.

Oral health problems

Problems such as dental disease, mouth ulcers, and gingivitis can cause your cat to feel uncomfortable and stimulate increased saliva production. 

1. Oral inflammation: these include gingivitis, mouth ulcers and tonsillitis, which can cause pain and discomfort in the mouth and lead to drooling in cats.
2. Dental disease: tartar and gingivitis are common problems in adult cats, and these problems not only cause oral discomfort, but may also lead to increased salivation.
3. Oral tumors: Benign or malignant tumors in the mouth may prevent normal oral function and cause drooling.
4. Esophageal foreign bodies: When cats have difficulty or are unable to swallow, saliva will spill out of the mouth, which may pose a serious choking risk.
5. Broken teeth: Broken teeth may stimulate saliva secretion, causing the cat to drool.
6. Foreign objects on the tongue: foreign objects on the tongue may also cause cats to drool as they interfere with the normal swallowing process.

Digestive problems

Food poisoning or indigestion can cause nausea and vomiting, which can lead to drooling. 

1. Gastritis or gastric ulcers: drooling may be triggered when your cat's stomach lining is irritated or damaged. This condition is usually accompanied by symptoms such as loss of appetite and vomiting. 
2. Liver or Kidney Disease: Liver or kidney dysfunction may lead to an accumulation of toxins in the body, and these toxins may irritate the mouth and cause drooling. As cats age, the risk of disease in these organs increases. 
3. Chronic stomatitis: Although chronic stomatitis primarily affects the oral cavity, it can also be a manifestation of systemic disease, including digestive disorders. Chronic stomatitis may lead to inflammation of the mouth, which in turn causes drooling. 
4. Feline Bone Resorption: This is a dental condition that may affect the stability of the teeth, leading to oral discomfort and drooling. 
5. Vitamin deficiencies: Niacin deficiency in the B-complex vitamins may lead to mouth ulcers and drooling, as these vitamins are essential for maintaining oral health.

Emotional reactions

Cats may salivate in response to stress, fear or anxiety. 

Neurological Disorders

Strokes or other neurological problems may affect the cat's salivary control mechanisms, leading to drooling. 

Foreign bodies in the mouth

Cats may have swallowed indigestible objects, such as fish spines or toy pieces, which may become lodged in the throat or esophagus and cause drooling. 

Kidney or Liver Disease

These diseases can cause metabolic disorders that affect electrolyte balance, which can lead to drooling. 

If your cat suddenly starts drooling, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as loss of appetite, behavioral changes or a bad taste in the mouth, you should take your cat to the veterinarian for an examination to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. 

How to Know If Drooling in Cats is a Normal Behavior or a Pathological Symptom?

Ways to distinguish between normal and pathological drooling

Drooling in cats can be a normal physiological response or a sign of a pathological symptom. Here are some ways to distinguish between the two.

Observe the accompanying symptoms

If the cat's drooling is accompanied by symptoms such as bad breath, decreased appetite, lack of interest in hard food, noises when eating, bleeding or foreign objects in the mouth, swelling or abnormalities in the mouth, this may indicate that the drooling is caused by oral problems or other diseases. 

Check for behavioral changes

If a cat suddenly starts drooling without this behavior before, or if the drooling is persistent, this may be a sign of a pathological condition. Normally, cats may drool when they are happy, relaxed or being petted, but this usually happens occasionally. 

Pay attention to the drooling environment

If a cat drools under certain circumstances, such as in a car or when exposed to certain foods, this may be a normal physiologic response. Whereas frequent drooling without an obvious trigger may be pathological. 

Assessing overall health

If your cat's overall health has declined, such as decreased vigor, weight changes or behavioral changes, this may indicate that the drooling is related to a health problem. In this case, a veterinarian should be contacted for an examination. 

Consider the age factor

While occasional drooling in younger cats may be normal behavior during curiosity or play, the sudden start of drooling in older cats may be an early warning of a health problem. 

By carefully observing and evaluating your cat's behavior and accompanying symptoms, you can help determine whether drooling is normal or a pathological condition that requires veterinary intervention. If in any doubt, it is best to consult a professional veterinarian for a definitive diagnosis and advice.

When to Be Concerned About Cat Drooling?

While some drooling can be normal, there are times when it may indicate a more serious issue.

Persistent Drooling

If your cat is drooling constantly or excessively, it’s important to consult your veterinarian. Persistent drooling can be a sign of underlying health problems such as dental disease, oral tumors, or neurological conditions that require medical attention.

Accompanied by Other Symptoms

Drooling that is accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in appetite, should be evaluated by a vet as soon as possible. These symptoms can indicate a range of health issues, from gastrointestinal problems to systemic infections or poisoning.

Sudden Onset

If your cat suddenly starts drooling without any obvious cause, it’s worth investigating. Sudden drooling can be a sign of acute conditions such as poisoning, a foreign object lodged in the mouth or throat, or a severe allergic reaction.

Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing

If your cat is drooling and also has difficulty swallowing, coughing, or shows signs of labored breathing, it’s a medical emergency. These symptoms could indicate an obstruction in the airway or a serious respiratory issue.

How to Help a Drooling Cat?

If your cat is drooling, there are steps you can take at home to help them feel more comfortable and address any underlying issues.

Home Care Tips

• Check for Foreign Objects: Gently open your cat’s mouth to see if there’s anything stuck that could be causing irritation. Be careful not to get bitten and consult your vet if you can’t safely remove the object.
• Keep Your Cat Calm: If your cat is drooling due to stress, create a calm environment by reducing noise, providing a safe space, and using calming products like pheromone diffusers.
• Monitor Eating and Drinking: Ensure your cat is still eating and drinking normally. If they avoid food or water, it could indicate pain or discomfort that needs veterinary attention.

What Foods Can Cause Increased Drooling in Cats?

Cats' eating habits are related to their physiology, and they are typically carnivorous. However, not all meats or foods are suitable for cats, and some may cause discomfort, including excessive drooling. Based on the information searched, here are some foods that may cause increased drooling in cats:

• Irritating Foods

If a cat accidentally ingests a food that contains a strong flavor or irritant, such as certain medications or additives, they may try to relieve the discomfort in their mouth by drooling. 

• Indigestible food

When cats accidentally eat solid objects that are difficult to digest, they may secrete excessive saliva due to mechanical irritation of the throat and esophagus. 

• Specific types of meat

Although cats enjoy a variety of meats, certain meats may contain ingredients that are not good for them. For example, offering chicken livers to cats over a long period of time may lead to an overdose of vitamin A, which may affect their bone health. 

• Dairy products

Although cats are sometimes attracted to yogurt, most adult cats are lactose intolerant and consuming dairy products may lead to indigestion and drooling. 

• Certain Fruits

Certain fruits may not be suitable for cats, such as grapes and raisins, and these foods may cause kidney failure in cats and may be accompanied by symptoms of drooling. 

When feeding your cat, avoid the foods mentioned above and make sure you provide food that is suitable for their digestive and nutritional needs. If you notice an increase in your cat's drooling after consuming a certain food, you should stop feeding that food and consult your veterinarian for further advice.

What Should Cats Eat To Reduce Drooling?

To minimize your cat's drooling, you can choose foods that are easy to digest and high in nutritional value. Here are some recommended food types.

• Meats that are high in protein and low in fat

Such as beef and chicken, these meats are not only high in protein but also low in fat, helping to maintain your cat's muscle health while reducing the digestive burden. 

• Cooked Fish

Fish is one of your cat's natural foods and is rich in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, which help to maintain a healthy heart and retinas, but make sure it is boneless to prevent choking. 

• Cooked pumpkin and carrots

Rich in fiber and vitamins, these vegetables help maintain your cat's gastrointestinal health, but should be cooked and chopped to accommodate your cat's ability to swallow. 

• Cooked potatoes

Potatoes are rich in starch and vitamins and can provide energy for cats, but should not be overdone and should be used as a supplement. 

• Yogurt

Yogurt in moderation can help maintain your cat's gastrointestinal health as it contains lactic acid bacteria that are easily digested and absorbed, but not all cats like the taste of yogurt, so try a small amount first. 

When choosing food, avoid those that may cause indigestion or allergic reactions, such as spicy foods and certain fish (e.g. tuna). Also, make sure the food is fresh and clean to minimize stress on the digestive system. If your cat's drooling problem persists, it is recommended that you consult your veterinarian to rule out an underlying health problem.

How to Properly Brush Your Cat's Teeth to Reduce Drooling?

Steps to properly brush your cat's teeth

• Choose the right tools

Use a small brush head designed for cats, a soft toothbrush, and pet-friendly toothpaste. Cat toothpastes often have flavors that appeal to cats, such as chicken or seafood, while human toothpastes may not be suitable for cats because of ingredients that may be harmful to them. 

• Train your cat gradually

Before you start brushing your cat's teeth, let your cat gradually get used to the taste of the toothpaste and the feel of the toothbrush. You can start by applying the toothpaste to your cat's lips and letting him lick it up on his own, then gently touch his lips, teeth and gums with the toothbrush. 

• Secure your cat and start brushing

Secure your cat in a comfortable position, such as on your lap or on the sink. Gently immobilize your cat's head with one hand and hold the toothbrush with the other. Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle at the junction of your cat's teeth and gums and gently brush. Brush the outer side first, then the inner side, and finally the biting surface. Be careful to use moderate force to avoid hurting your cat's gums. 

• Maintain consistency and patience

The ideal brushing frequency is once a day, but at least twice a week. The duration of each brushing should be around 2-3 minutes to ensure that every tooth is brushed. After brushing, give your cat a reward, such as a snack or toy, to reinforce a positive attitude towards brushing. 

By following the steps above, you can help your cat establish a habit of brushing his or her teeth and reduce oral problems, which may reduce the risk of drooling. Remember to remain patient and gentle throughout the process so as not to make your cat uncomfortable or resistant.

Are There Any Natural Ways to Reduce Drooling in Cats?

Drooling in cats can be caused by oral health issues, digestive upsets, or other health conditions. In order to reduce your cat's drooling naturally, there are several things you can do.

Adjust the diet

Make sure your cat's food is fresh and easily digestible, and avoid overly salty or spicy foods, which may stimulate saliva production. Moist food, such as wet cat food, can be provided to help cats chew and swallow better. Are there any natural ways to minimize cat drooling.

Regular Oral Cleaning

Brush your cat's teeth regularly, using a special cat toothbrush and cat toothpaste to maintain oral hygiene and prevent gingivitis and mouth ulcers.

Related: How to Clean Cats' Teeth

Provide chew toys

Provide cat grass or specialized chew toys to help your cat clean tartar and food debris from their teeth and reduce oral problems.

Increase Exercise

Moderate exercise can help your cat burn energy and reduce drooling caused by stress or anxiety.

Vitamin and mineral supplementation

Provide foods rich in vitamin B and Omega-3 fatty acids, nutrients that are beneficial for maintaining oral health. 

Avoid stress

Ensure your cat is in a quiet, comfortable environment to reduce drooling caused by stress. 

How to Adjust Cat's Diet When Drooling?

Dietary adjustments are very important when your cat is drooling. First, you should choose foods that are easy to digest and avoid hard or dry foods that cause additional stress and damage to your cat's mouth. Consider offering wet or semi-moisturized food, which has a softer texture and can reduce the irritation to the mouth when chewing. 

Next, make sure your cat is getting enough water to prevent dehydration. Cats can be encouraged to drink more water by increasing the water content of their food or by providing fresh water alone. Sometimes, adding some sugar-free flavoring to the water, such as honey, can also entice your cat to drink. 

In addition, foods that may cause oral irritation, such as spicy or overly salty and heavy foods, should be avoided. If the cat's previous diet contained these ingredients, it should be gradually transitioned to milder foods. 

Finally, if your cat's drooling is accompanied by bad breath or significant oral discomfort, you should consider using a specialized oral cleansing product, such as a mouthwash or oral spray, to help control bacterial growth and reduce discomfort. 

When implementing dietary adjustments, the cat's response should be closely monitored to ensure that the new diet is appropriate for their tastes and health. If your cat's symptoms do not improve or appear to worsen, you should contact your veterinarian for further examination and guidance.

FAQs

Does a Cat's Lack of Exercise Affect the Drooling Phenomenon?

Inadequate exercise may indeed affect drooling in cats. Moderate exercise helps cats burn off energy from their bodies and maintain their weight and overall health. If a cat lacks adequate exercise, it may lead to excess energy, which is sometimes reflected in behaviors such as excessive drooling. Additionally, insufficient exercise can lead to obesity and related health problems, which themselves may affect your cat's oral health, thus indirectly contributing to drooling. 

To ensure that your cat is getting the amount of exercise they need to meet their health needs, it is recommended that you provide your cat with at least 30 minutes of active, interactive playtime each day, using a variety of toys and games to stimulate their hunting instincts. At the same time, ensuring that cats have enough space for free movement, including climbing and exploring, will help improve their physical vigor and coordination. By doing this, you can help reduce drooling due to energy buildup or health issues.

Are There Age Related Drooling in Cats?

Drooling in cats can indeed be age related. Young cats may drool occasionally due to incomplete oral development or curiosity, while drooling in adult or older cats may be caused by oral disease, digestive problems, or other health issues. As cats age, they are more likely to develop tooth and gum problems such as calculus and gingivitis, which can lead to increased drooling.
Older cats' body functions gradually decline and they may develop chronic kidney and liver disease, which can also lead to drooling. In addition, older cats have reduced immunity and are more susceptible to infections, such as oral infections, which can also be a cause of drooling. 

Therefore, different preventive and management measures should be taken for cats of different ages. Young cats should focus on oral hygiene education, while adult and senior cats need regular health check-ups for early detection and management of possible health problems. 

How to Tell the Difference Between What Common Diseases Cause Drooling in Older Cats?

 Drooling in older cats can be caused by a variety of diseases, here are some common diseases and their characteristics to help you differentiate .

Periodontal disease

As cats age, they are more susceptible to periodontal disease, a bacterial infection caused by the accumulation of tartar and calculus. Periodontal disease causes inflammation of the gums, leading to increased saliva production. Symptoms may include mouth odor, loss of appetite and loose teeth.

Chronic Stomatitis

This is a chronic inflammatory disease that may be caused by a viral infection or an autoimmune disease. Chronic stomatitis causes pain and drooling in the mouth, sometimes accompanied by mouth ulcers.

Feline Dental Bone Resorption

This is a dental disease in which overactive tooth-breaking cells lead to destruction of the tooth structure, which in turn causes resorption of the tooth bone. This disease results in weak teeth and may be accompanied by drooling.

Organ Diseases

Liver and kidney failure are common problems in older cats, and these organ diseases can lead to systemic metabolic disorders that indirectly cause oral problems and drooling.

Vitamin Deficiency

Vitamin B complex deficiencies, in particular, may lead to oral inflammation and ulcers, which in turn cause drooling.

In order to accurately diagnose the cause of drooling in older cats, you should observe your cat for any of the above symptoms and promptly take your cat to the veterinarian for a thorough examination. The veterinarian may recommend blood tests, x-rays or ultrasounds, and an oral examination to determine the exact cause and develop a treatment plan accordingly. 

What Changes in Behavior in Cats May Indicate Drooling Related to Mood?

The Relationship Between Cat Drooling and Emotions

Drooling in cats may not only be a physical reaction, but may also be related to emotional states. When cats are nervous, scared, or excited, their autonomic nervous system may be activated, leading to an increase in salivary gland production, which can cause drooling. This emotionally induced drooling is usually temporary and may be accompanied by other behavioral changes. 

Behavioral changes that may indicate mood-related changes

Increased or decreased sleep: Cats may change their sleep patterns as a result of emotional stress in the form of hypersomnia or insomnia. 
Aggressive Behavior: Stress may cause cats to become irritable and aggressive, which may manifest itself when they feel upset or are forced to do something. 
Seclusion Behavior: Cats may choose to hide and seclude themselves from interaction with people or other pets as a sign that they are trying to find a safe and comfortable space. 
Abnormal salivation: In addition to physiological reasons, stress may cause cats to overproduce saliva, which manifests as increased drooling. 
Tail wagging and ear flapping: Changes in a cat's body language, such as tail wagging and frequent ear flapping, may be a sign that they are expressing nervousness and uneasiness. 

Precautions

If you observe any of these behavioral changes in your cat, especially if there is no apparent physical cause, it may indicate that your cat's drooling is emotionally related. In this case, providing a quiet, safe environment, reducing stimuli that may cause stress, and comforting the cat through gentle language and close interaction can help relieve its tension. If behavioral changes persist or intensify, it is recommended that a veterinarian be consulted to rule out other health problems. 

What Vitamins Supplementation in Feline Stomatitis Treatment is Helpful for Recovery?

Supplementation with vitamin B complex is very helpful in the treatment of feline stomatitis for your cat's recovery. Vitamin B complex is essential for maintaining normal metabolism and neurological function in cats, especially vitamin B2 (riboflavin), which helps to eliminate the inflammatory response in the mouth, promotes cell regeneration, and speeds up the recovery of oral ulcers. In addition, other members of the B-complex of vitamins, such as vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B9 (folic acid), and vitamin B12 (cobalamin), are also beneficial in maintaining your cat's overall health and promoting oral healing. 

During the treatment period, the B-complex vitamins can be supplemented with food, such as adding foods containing these vitamins such as egg yolks and meat to your cat's diet. There are also vitamin B supplements on the market specifically designed for cats that can be added to their diet as recommended by your veterinarian. When choosing a vitamin supplement, you should ensure that the product is suitable for your cat and that you follow the correct dosage guidelines to avoid overdose. 

In summary, supplementation with B-complex vitamins, especially vitamin B2, can be very beneficial in treating stomatitis in cats and promoting their recovery. It is best to consult your veterinarian for individualized advice and guidance before implementing any supplemental treatment

Conclusion

While drooling in cats can be a sign of contentment or relaxation, it can also indicate underlying health issues, especially if it’s sudden or excessive. Understanding the reasons why your cat might be drooling can help you take appropriate action, whether it’s providing comfort during stressful times or seeking veterinary care for more serious concerns. By keeping an eye on your cat’s behavior and maintaining regular vet check-ups, you can ensure they stay happy and healthy.