It's always a little alarming when something seems off with a pet. Cats are generally pretty independent and secretive about their health, so any sudden behavior changes can raise a few eyebrows. Recently, one thing that had me concerned was noticing my cat salivating more than usual. At first, I thought it was a harmless thing, but after a while, it became clear that something was up. If a cat's salivating more than usual, it's worth exploring the possible causes to make sure it's nothing serious. After some research and a vet visit, I’ve learned a lot about why cats salivate and when it’s cause for concern.
Salivation in Cats: Understanding the Basics
Salivation is a natural process for cats, just like it is for any other animal. A cat's saliva helps with the digestion process, moistening food and making it easier to swallow. However, excessive salivation, or drooling, is not typical behavior. Most cats are pretty neat about their grooming, so when excessive drooling occurs, it often points to an underlying issue. This could be something minor like excitement or something more serious like dental disease.
So, what’s going on when a cat starts salivating excessively? Here are the common causes that might explain why a cat is salivating.
Also read: How Do You Discipline a Cat?
1. Dental Issues
Dental problems are one of the most common reasons why a cat might salivate more than usual. Cats are prone to dental issues such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, or even tooth abscesses. The pain from these dental issues often leads to increased salivation, as the cat may find it painful to chew food properly. In some cases, cats may even stop eating due to the discomfort caused by dental disease, but the salivation continues as a reaction to the irritation in their mouth.
Cats, like humans, need regular dental care. Signs of dental disease include bad breath, difficulty eating, red or inflamed gums, and, of course, excessive drooling. If dental disease is the culprit, a visit to the vet will usually be necessary for cleaning, treatment, or possibly tooth extractions.
Also read: Why Is My Cat Meowing So Much?
2. Nausea
Nausea can also lead to excessive salivation in cats. Just like humans, when cats feel sick to their stomach, they may salivate to try and neutralize the acids in their stomach. Some cats salivate more when they’re feeling nauseous, and this could happen for various reasons, such as eating something they shouldn’t have, being overfed, or even experiencing stress. In some cases, nausea could also be caused by infections, liver disease, or kidney failure, which might need more attention from a veterinarian to get to the bottom of the issue.
If the nausea is from a temporary upset stomach, the salivation may go away once the cat feels better. However, if the nausea persists or is associated with other signs like lethargy or vomiting, it's a good idea to consult a vet for further investigation.
3. Foreign Objects in the Mouth or Throat
Sometimes, cats salivate excessively when something gets stuck in their mouths or throats. Whether it's a small toy, string, or part of their food that they’re struggling to swallow, a foreign object can irritate a cat’s mouth or throat, leading to increased salivation as the cat tries to clear it out.
If the object is lodged in the throat or causing a blockage, the cat might also exhibit other signs like coughing, gagging, or excessive pawing at the mouth. In these cases, it's important to act quickly and get the cat to a vet to safely remove the object.
4. Oral Tumors or Cancer
Oral tumors or cancers can also be a more serious cause of excessive salivation. While less common than other causes, oral cancers, especially those affecting the mouth or throat, can cause discomfort and salivation in cats. In some cases, these tumors may even create a foul-smelling breath or cause a noticeable growth in the cat’s mouth.
Signs of oral tumors may include difficulty eating, changes in eating habits, visible masses in the mouth, drooling, or pawing at the face. If any of these symptoms are noticed, it's crucial to take the cat to the vet for a thorough examination and to rule out any serious issues.
5. Poisoning
Another reason for excessive salivation could be poisoning. Cats are naturally curious, and sometimes they may ingest toxic substances—whether it’s plants like lilies, chemicals, or foods that are harmful to them. The body’s response to poison often includes drooling, vomiting, and a general feeling of distress. In these cases, immediate veterinary attention is required, as some poisons can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Signs of poisoning in cats include drooling, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, or seizures. If poisoning is suspected, getting to the vet quickly can make a huge difference.
6. Stress and Anxiety
Like people, cats experience stress, and it can show in different ways, including excessive salivation. Stress in cats could be triggered by many things: a change in environment, new people or animals in the house, travel, or even unfamiliar smells. For some cats, stress causes physical reactions like drooling, shaking, or other odd behaviors.
If stress is the cause, it’s important to try to reduce the stressors around the cat and create a calm environment. Feliway diffusers or calming pheromones can sometimes help soothe an anxious cat. But if stress is causing chronic drooling, seeking advice from a vet or a feline behaviorist may help find long-term solutions.
7. Overstimulated or Excited
Sometimes, cats salivate when they’re highly excited or overstimulated, especially during playtime or when they’re expecting food. It’s a response that’s generally harmless and temporary, and it’s not usually a cause for concern. If the salivation is occurring when the cat is particularly excited, then it’s likely just part of their emotional reaction.
However, if the cat is drooling excessively or the excitement doesn’t seem to subside, it’s important to keep an eye on them and ensure they’re not showing any other signs of distress.
When to See the Vet
Most of the time, occasional drooling from a cat isn’t a cause for concern. But if the salivation is persistent, excessive, or accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or changes in behavior, it’s time to reach out to a vet. Only a professional can properly diagnose the cause of excessive salivation and recommend the right treatment.
Conclusion
There are a variety of reasons why a cat might salivate, from dental problems to nausea, and even stress or excitement. While occasional drooling isn’t usually a reason to worry, it’s essential to monitor the cat’s behavior and see if other symptoms develop. If excessive salivation persists or seems out of the ordinary, it’s always best to consult with a vet to ensure the cat’s health and well-being.
By paying attention to the subtle signs and acting quickly when something seems off, pet owners can ensure their cats stay happy, healthy, and comfortable. It’s all part of being a responsible and loving pet parent.