How to Help Your Cat if It’s Drooling Too Much

Identifying the Causes of Excessive Drooling

Several factors can contribute to increased salivation in cats. Identifying the root cause is crucial for effective treatment. Recognizing the signs and symptoms associated with each potential cause can help you provide accurate information to your veterinarian, leading to a faster diagnosis and treatment plan.

Oral Health Problems

Dental issues are among the most common reasons for drooling in cats. Problems such as gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease, and dental abscesses can cause inflammation and pain, stimulating saliva production. These conditions make it difficult and painful for a cat to eat, which can lead to drooling.

• Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums, often caused by plaque and tartar buildup.
• Stomatitis: A severe inflammation of the oral cavity, which can be very painful.
• Periodontal Disease: An advanced stage of gum disease affecting the tissues and bones supporting the teeth.
• Dental Abscesses: Infections around the tooth roots, causing pain and swelling.

Foreign Objects in the Mouth

Sometimes, a foreign object lodged in a cat’s mouth can cause drooling. This could be a piece of string, a small bone, or a plant fragment. The presence of a foreign object irritates the oral tissues, leading to increased salivation as the cat tries to dislodge it.

Nausea and Gastrointestinal Issues

Nausea, regardless of its cause, can trigger excessive drooling in cats. Conditions such as motion sickness, dietary indiscretion (eating something they shouldn’t), or underlying gastrointestinal diseases can all lead to nausea and subsequent drooling. If your cat is also vomiting or showing signs of abdominal discomfort, a gastrointestinal issue is likely the cause.

Upper Respiratory Infections

Upper respiratory infections (URIs) can cause inflammation and irritation in the nasal passages and throat, leading to increased saliva production. Cats with URIs may also exhibit other symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and watery eyes. These infections can sometimes lead to a decreased appetite as well.

Exposure to Toxins or Irritants

Exposure to certain toxins or irritants can cause a cat to drool excessively. This includes exposure to poisonous plants, cleaning products, or certain medications. The cat’s body attempts to flush out the toxin by producing more saliva.

Organ Disease

Certain systemic diseases, such as kidney or liver disease, can also cause drooling. These conditions can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body, which can stimulate the salivary glands. In these cases, drooling is often accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, and increased thirst.

Stress or Anxiety

In some cases, stress or anxiety can cause a cat to drool. This is often seen in cats who are nervous during car rides or vet visits. The drooling is usually temporary and resolves once the stressful situation is over.

What to Do When Your Cat Is Drooling Excessively

If you notice your cat is drooling more than usual, it’s important to take action. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

1. Observe Your Cat’s Behavior: Pay close attention to any other symptoms your cat is exhibiting. Is your cat pawing at their mouth? Are they having difficulty eating? Are they lethargic or vomiting? Noting these additional symptoms can help your vet make a more accurate diagnosis.
2. Check Your Cat’s Mouth: Gently examine your cat’s mouth for any obvious signs of problems, such as redness, swelling, or foreign objects. Be cautious, as a painful mouth can cause a cat to bite. If you see something easily removable, like a small piece of string, try to gently remove it. However, if you are unsure or the object is deeply embedded, do not attempt to remove it yourself.
3. Contact Your Veterinarian: If the drooling persists for more than a day, or if your cat is showing other signs of illness, contact your veterinarian immediately. Excessive drooling can be a sign of a serious underlying condition that requires professional treatment.
4. Provide a Comfortable Environment: While waiting for your vet appointment, make sure your cat is comfortable and has access to fresh water. If they are having difficulty eating, offer them soft food.
5. Follow Your Veterinarian’s Instructions: Once your veterinarian has diagnosed the cause of the drooling, carefully follow their treatment recommendations. This may include medications, dental procedures, or dietary changes.

Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your cat’s excessive drooling. This may include:

• Physical Examination: A general assessment of your cat’s overall health.
• Oral Examination: A detailed examination of the mouth, including the teeth, gums, and tongue. This may require sedation if your cat is in pain or uncooperative.
• Blood Tests: To assess organ function and rule out systemic diseases.
• Urinalysis: To evaluate kidney function and detect other abnormalities.
• X-rays: To visualize the teeth, jaw, and other structures in the mouth.

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the drooling. Common treatments include:

• Dental Cleaning and Extractions: For dental issues, a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia may be necessary. In some cases, teeth may need to be extracted.
• Antibiotics: To treat bacterial infections.
• Pain Relief: To manage pain and inflammation.
• Medications for Nausea: To control nausea and vomiting.
• Dietary Changes: To manage gastrointestinal issues or kidney disease.
• Removal of Foreign Objects: If a foreign object is found in the mouth, it will be carefully removed.

Prevention of Excessive Drooling

While not all causes of drooling can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Regular Dental Care: Brush your cat’s teeth regularly and schedule professional dental cleanings as recommended by your veterinarian.
• Safe Environment: Keep potentially toxic substances out of your cat’s reach.
• Balanced Diet: Feed your cat a high-quality diet to support overall health.
• Regular Vet Checkups: Schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian to detect and address any health issues early.
• Minimize Stress: Create a calm and stable environment for your cat to minimize stress and anxiety.