Why Does My Cat Drool? We're Revealing the Truth!
Have you ever wondered, "Why does my cat drool?" when they sit on your lap?
That wet spot on your pants might worry you, but don't panic!
Sometimes cat drooling is normal, and sometimes it means your Fluffy Friend needs help.
Cats usually keep themselves clean and swallow their spit, so when they leave little wet spots, it's good to know why.
Let's learn about cat drool and when you should call the animal doctor!
Table of Contents
Happy Drooling: When Wet Chins Are Normal
Super Happy Cats
When your cat is super relaxed and purring in your lap, you might see a little drool.
This happy drooling happens because your cat feels so good they forget to swallow their spit!
It's like when you're sleeping so deeply that drool gets on your pillow.
A happy cat might let some spit drip out when they feel safe and loved.
Yummy Food Time
Has your cat ever drooled while watching you open their food?
The smell of tasty treats can make your cat's mouth water!
Their salivary glands (parts in the mouth that make spit) work extra hard when they smell something yummy.
Avoid the mess and feed them using their portable bowls!
Cuddle Puddles
Some cats make a little drool during petting time.
This normal behavior shows they trust you.
If your cat only makes a small amount of saliva when you pet 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 hurts, they might not want to swallow.
This causes excessive drooling.
Signs that dental problems might be making your cat drool:
- Bad 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 professional cleanings at the vet!
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 Licked
Many household products and plants are poisonous to cats (they can make cats very sick).
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 (little sores) can make swallowing hurt.
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 an owie 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, goopy eyes, and feeling warm.
Kidney and Liver Problems
In older cats especially, kidney disease and liver disease can cause drooling.
These health issues often make cats feel sick to their tummy, which makes them drool.
If your adult cat is drooling and also drinking lots of water, losing weight, or throwing up, it's time for a veterinary exam (a checkup with the animal doctor).
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 would have stinky breath, trouble eating, and excessive meowing.
The vet can find these early if they look in your cat's mouth regularly.
Related: How To Travel With a Cat: Car, Plane, Train
Drooling When Cats Feel Nervous
Scaredy-Cat Drool
Some cats drool when they feel scared.
Car rides, vet visits, or meeting new pets can cause lots of drool because they're nervous or feel queasy during trips.
You can help them feel better by giving them their own cozy space.
New Foods or Medicines
A new food or oral medication might make your cat drool if it tastes bad to them.
This bad taste response usually doesn't last long, but cats can be very dramatic with head shaking and lots of drool!
If your cat is being a little drama king or queen about taking their medicine, try wrapping them up in a towel like a cozy '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 are stress-free.
Related: How To Give a Difficult Cat Liquid Medicine
When to Call the Animal Doctor
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 lots more than normal
- Coming with other problems like being sleepy or not eating
- Happening all the time instead of just sometimes
- Along with stinky breath or visible mouth problems
- After they might've licked something poisonous
Your vet will do a physical exam and 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: Purr-Fect Chinese New Year Gift Ideas for Cat Lovers
Next Steps for Cat Owners
Giving your feline friend the best care means watching for changes in how they act.
While a little drool during happy times is fine, too much drooling needs attention.
Regular checkups for your cat's teeth, safe toys, and good food can stop many causes of drooling before they start.
Remember that your cat's mouth tells you a lot 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 attention 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!
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