Why Does My Cat Drool? We're Revealing the Truth!
Ever wondered, "Why on earth does my cat drool?" when they're perched on your lap?
That wet spot on your trousers might have you worried, but don't panic!
Sometimes cat drooling is just fine, and sometimes it means your Fluffy Friend needs a bit of help.
Cats usually keep themselves spotless and swallow their spit, so when they leave little wet marks, it's good to know why.
Let's learn about cat drool and when you should ring up the vet!
Table of Contents
Happy Drooling: When Wet Chins Are Totally Normal
Super Happy Cats
When your cat is mega relaxed and purring away on your lap, you might spot a cheeky bit of drool.
This happy drooling happens because your cat's so blissed out they forget to swallow their spit!
It's just like when you're sleeping so deeply that drool ends up on your pillow.
A happy cat might let a bit of spit drip out when they're feeling safe and loved.
Yummy Food Time
Has your cat ever drooled while you're opening their grub?
The smell of tasty treats can make your cat's mouth water!
Their salivary glands (bits in the mouth that make spit) go into overdrive when they smell something scrummy.
Dodge the mess and feed them using their portable bowls!
Cuddle Puddles
Some cats let out a bit of drool during a good petting session.
This normal behaviour shows they trust you.
If your cat only makes a small amount of saliva when you're stroking them and seems fine, it's usually nothing to worry about.
Why Does My Cat Drool? When Dribbles Spell Trouble
Tooth and Gum Troubles
One of the most common causes of cat drooling is dental issues (problems with teeth and gums).
Just like kids get cavities, cats can get tooth decay and gum disease.
When your cat's mouth is hurting, they might not want to swallow.
This causes excessive drooling.
Signs that dental problems might be making your cat drool:
- Manky breath
- Red or bleeding gums
- Not wanting to eat or poor appetite
- Pawing at their mouth like something hurts
- Weight loss
Dental treats help clean your cat's teeth between proper vet cleanings!
Stuff Stuck in Their Mouth
Cats are curious and sometimes get things stuck in their mouth.
A blade of grass, a tiny toy, string, or even a bug could be a foreign object stuck in your cat's mouth or back of the throat.
This can cause severe drooling.
If your cat suddenly starts drooling a lot, check to see if something's stuck.
Yucky Stuff They've Licked
Loads of household products and plants are poisonous to cats (they can make cats really poorly).
When cats taste toxic substances, they drool a lot as their body tries to get rid of the bitter taste.
Things that can make cats drool if they lick them:
- Cleaning sprays and wipes
- Electrical cords they might chew
- Poisonous plants like lilies and tulips
- Human medicines
Mouth Boo-boos
Mouth injuries like cuts, burns, or mouth ulcers can make swallowing painful.
Your cat might get oral injuries from biting something sharp, fighting with another animal, or eating something too hot.
If you notice abnormal drooling and your cat doesn't want to eat, they might have a sore in their mouth.
Big Health Problems That Make Cats Drool
Cat Colds
Cats can catch colds too!
Upper respiratory infections (like a stuffy nose and sore throat) can make cats drool because they can't breathe well through their nose.
When a cat breathes through their mouth, they might drool.
Other signs include sneezing, gunky eyes, and feeling a bit warm.
Kidney and Liver Problems
Especially in older cats, kidney disease and liver disease can cause drooling.
These health issues often make cats feel queasy, which makes them drool.
If your adult cat is drooling and also drinking loads of water, losing weight, or throwing up, it's time for a vet check.
Mouth Bumps That Shouldn't Be There
Sometimes cats can get oral cancer (bumps in their mouth) that makes them drool.
This serious health problem usually shows up as a lump in the cat's mouth.
Sometimes, they’d have rank breath, trouble eating, and excessive meowing.
The vet can spot these early if they look in your cat's mouth regularly.
Related: How Much is it to Spay a Dog or Cat?
Drooling When Cats Feel Nervous
Scaredy-Cat Drool
Some cats drool when they’re feeling scared.
Car rides, vet visits, or meeting new pets can cause loads of drool because they're nervous or feel a bit queasy during trips.
You can help them feel better by giving them their own cosy space.
New Foods or Medicines
A new food or oral medication might make your cat drool if it tastes rank to them.
This bad taste response usually doesn't last long, but cats can be proper drama queens with head shaking and lots of drool!
If your cat's being a total diva about taking their medicine, try wrapping them up in a towel like a cosy 'kitty burrito'.
This way, they stay snug and safe while you give them their liquid medicine—without getting scratched!
If you learn how to give an aggressive cat liquid medicine, you and your cat will be stress-free.
Related: Surprise! The Worst Dog Breeds for Cats Revealed
When to Call the Vet
It's a good idea to get veterinary care if your cat's drooling is:
It's a good idea to get veterinary care if your cat's drooling is:
- Sudden and loads more than normal
- Coming with other problems like being knackered or not eating
- Happening all the time instead of just sometimes
- Along with manky breath or visible mouth problems
- After they might've licked something poisonous
Your vet will do a physical exam and have a good look inside of your cat's mouth.
They'll try to find the real reason for the drooling.
Then they can give the best care to help your kitty feel better.
Related: Tips on How to Calm a Hyper Cat
Next Steps for Cat Owners
Giving your feline mate the best care means keeping an eye out for changes in how they're acting.
While a bit of drool during happy times is fine, too much drooling needs attention.
Regular check-ups for your cat's teeth, safe toys, and good grub can stop many causes of drooling before they start.
Remember that your cat's mouth tells you loads about their health.
By knowing the different reasons why cats drool, you can tell when to enjoy your happy drooling kitty and when to get medical help for their wet whiskers!
Does your cat drool when they're happy or for another reason?
Share your drooly cat stories in the comments below!
Looking for some products that could help you out?
Check out our Online Shop or visit our Homepage to explore more!
