Tuxedo Cat

Featuring Otis.

Believe it or not, dogs are not the only pets that drool. Cats have been known to drool for a number of reasons. Some cats drool and can’t really control it, its part of who they are. Other cats drool for very specific reasons including illness.  Charles Whitworth, DVM, and his team of experts at Whitworth Animal Clinic in Madison, AL can help you uncover the reason(s) why your cat drools and suggest ways to get your fur baby back on track.

Cats That Drool – is it a Cry for Help?

Studies show that cats sometimes drool when they are over stimulated, nervous, or ill. It’s important to be able to spot the difference between a happy, drooling, kitty and a sick, or nervous cat. In the event of a life threatening situation, knowing the symptoms of illness could potentially save the life of your pet.

Over Stimulation – a Sign of Happiness:

  • Excessive petting
  • Brushing
  • Aromatics (catnip)
  • “Treat time”

Health Conditions:

  • Oral Disease: Symptoms include red, swollen gums, foul odor, rubbing mouth on stationary objects, loss of appetite.
  • Heatstroke/Heart Attack: Excessive panting, vomiting, redness of the gums, and lethargy.
  • Respiratory Infection: Coughing, sneezing, congestion.
  • Organ Disease: As cats age their health begins to deteriorate. Kidney and liver disease become increasingly common in older cats, and these illnesses can lead to excess drooling.

Lifestyle Causes:

  • Carsickness: The motion of your vehicle and the likelihood that your cat knows you are probably going to the vet can cause anxiety, panting and mouth-breathing. Some cats cannot tolerate a ride in the car, no matter who’s driving.
  • Poisonous Plant Ingestion: Calla lilies, elephant ear plants, schefflera, peace lilies, diffenbachia, snake plants, tulips, azaleas, and chrysanthemums can irritate your cat’s digestive system and cause drooling. Learn more+
  • Fright: Some cats drool when they are excited, others drool when they get scared. Significant changes can adversely affect your cat such as moving, a new roommate, or a new pet.

Solving the Drool Mystery

If your cat drools, you need to pay particular attention to the circumstances that trigger those drooling incidents. Pay attention to the time of day so you can pin it to “treat time” or some similar stimulant, then mystery solved. When your cat is steadily drooling for no apparent reason, take a walk around the yard or look around the house paying particular attention to items that look like they have gone a “few rounds” with your cat. You know your cat better than anyone so look them over and trust your instincts!