Why is My Cat Drooling: Common Causes and What to Do

Key takeaways:

• Cat drooling can be natural during moments of happiness or stress, but if it is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, it may indicate health issues.
• Dental issues commonly cause excessive drooling in cats, highlighting the need for regular vet check-ups and oral care.
• Understanding your cat’s drooling pattern and seeking veterinary guidance when changes occur ensures your pet’s well-being and comfort.

While a little bit of drool can be normal, especially when your cat is feeling relaxed, if you’ve noticed a significant change, it’s worth taking a closer look.

PetHealthMD can help you understand what’s behind your cat’s drooling so you can decide the next steps with your vet. Dental issues like gum inflammation or tooth pain are common culprits, especially if there’s also bad breath or hesitation to eat. But drooling can also appear when your cat is stressed, nauseated, or has feline stomatitis.

Knowing what’s typical for your cat and spotting when something’s off can make it easier to get the proper care early on.

Why is my cat drooling?

Noticing your cat drooling can catch you off guard, especially if it’s not something they usually do. Understanding the difference between harmless drooling and signs of a potential health issue helps you make confident, informed choices about their care.

When drooling is normal

Some cats drool when they’re deeply relaxed or happy. If your cat starts to drool while purring, kneading, or enjoying a good petting session, it’s likely a sign of contentment, especially if it’s something they’ve done consistently over time. This kind of drooling is often traced back to nursing behavior from kittenhood.

Mild, short-term drooling can also occur when your cat feels nervous or overstimulated. Motion sickness, vet visits, and new environments may bring temporary drooling and signs like flattened ears or vocalizing more than usual. Creating calm spaces and sticking to routines can help reduce stress-related drooling.

When drooling deserves a closer look

Persistent or excessive drooling—especially when it’s new or accompanied by other symptoms—may signal a medical issue. Here are some common causes that may need a vet’s attention:

• Dental problems: Gum inflammation (gingivitis), tooth decay, or oral infections can cause pain and increased salivation. Look for signs like bad breath, difficulty eating, or pawing at the mouth.
  
• Foreign objects: Pieces of string, grass, or toy fragments stuck in your cat’s mouth can irritate the gums and trigger drooling as your cat tries to dislodge them.
  
• Toxin exposure: Your cat’s drooling may be a reaction to something harmful it licked or chewed, such as a toxic plant or cleaning product.
  
• Digestive or systemic illness: Nausea, liver conditions, or specific gastrointestinal issues may cause drooling along with lethargy, appetite changes, or vomiting.
  
• Neurological issues: If drooling appears alongside trouble swallowing, balance problems, or behavior changes, it could indicate a neurological condition.

When to call your vet

If drooling is frequent, lasts over a short while, or appears with other signs like appetite loss or unusual behavior, it’s time for a veterinary check-up. Your vet can identify the root cause and recommend the proper treatment so your cat can start feeling better.

How to stop a cat from drooling

Take control of your cat’s drooling with these proven solutions that keep your feline friend comfortable and healthy.

Preventative care

• Schedule regular dental check-ups to catch oral health issues early. Routine veterinary exams help identify dental problems like gingivitis, tooth decay, or oral tumors before they cause discomfort or increased drooling. Early detection can mean simpler treatments and a happier, healthier cat.
• Brush your cat’s teeth daily using pet-safe toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Home dental care goes a long way in preventing drooling caused by oral disease. Use toothpaste made for pets—never human toothpaste—and gently brush along the gumline with a brush designed for small pets.
• Maintain consistent routines and provide cozy hiding spots to create a stress-free environment. Cats thrive on predictability. Try to feed, play, and engage with your cat on a consistent schedule, and make sure they have access to quiet, secure areas where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.

Immediate solutions

• Place food and water bowls comfortably to minimize drooling during meals. If your cat is older or has joint pain, slightly elevating their bowls can reduce strain during mealtimes and help make eating more comfortable, especially if drooling seems worse when bent over.
• Use calming aids in areas where your cat shows anxiety. Synthetic feline pheromones, like calming diffusers or sprays, can help ease stress-related drooling. Place them in rooms where your cat feels anxious, such as near carriers, windows, or high-traffic areas.
• Keep a daily log of drooling episodes to help identify patterns and triggers. Tracking when, where, and how often your cat drools can reveal helpful clues. Note behavior, appetite, or environment changes, and share the log with your vet to guide any necessary follow-up.

Safety measures

• Store household cleaners and medications in locked cabinets away from curious paws. Accidental exposure to toxins can cause sudden drooling and serious health problems. Keep anything potentially harmful out of reach, and double-check that cabinet doors close securely.
• Replace toxic houseplants with cat-safe alternatives like catnip or cat grass. Many common houseplants, like shamrock, can cause drooling if chewed or ingested. Swapping them out for cat-friendly greenery lets your cat explore safely without risking exposure to irritating or dangerous substances.
• Inspect your cat’s favorite toys regularly for signs of wear that could create choking hazards. Loose strings, cracked plastic, or broken bells can injure your cat’s mouth or get lodged in their throat. Regularly checking toys for damage helps prevent oral injuries that might lead to drooling.

Frequently asked questions about cat drooling

Can certain cat breeds be more prone to drooling?

While drooling isn’t typically breed-specific, some cats with flatter faces—like Persians or Himalayans—may be slightly more prone to it. Their facial structure can make it harder to keep saliva fully contained, especially if underlying dental or tear drainage problems contribute to oral moisture.

Does teething cause drooling in kittens?

Yes, kittens often drool more when they’re teething, usually between 3 and 6 months of age. You might also notice increased chewing or sensitivity around the mouth. This drooling is generally temporary and subsides once adult teeth have fully come in.

Is drooling ever a sign of an allergic reaction?

In rare cases, drooling can indicate that your cat has had an allergic reaction, especially to something they tasted or chewed. This is often accompanied by swelling, vomiting, or itching around the face. If you suspect an allergic reaction, let your vet know promptly.

Can dental treats or chews help reduce drooling?

Dental treats can support oral health by helping to reduce plaque buildup, which may, in turn, minimize drooling caused by gum irritation. While they aren’t a substitute for brushing or dental cleanings, they can be a helpful supplement—just check that they’re vet-recommended and sized appropriately for your cat.

What should I do if my cat drools after taking medication?

Some medications, especially those with bitter tastes, can trigger drooling as a side effect. If the drooling is brief and happens right after a dose, it may not be cause for concern. However, if it’s excessive, persistent, or paired with vomiting or other symptoms, check in with your vet—they may recommend a different formulation or method of administration.

What treatment options might my vet suggest?

Your vet will design a personalized care plan based on what’s causing your cat’s drooling. This might include a professional dental cleaning, medicine to help with pain or inflammation, or treatment for other health issues. Regular check-ups help catch and address drooling concerns early, keeping your cat comfortable and healthy.

Know when it’s more than just a little drool

A bit of drooling can be normal for some cats, especially during moments of happiness or stress. But if you notice changes in how often it happens—or if it’s paired with other signs like appetite loss, bad breath, or discomfort—it’s worth checking in with your vet.

The good news is you don’t have to navigate it alone. PetMeds offers a wide selection of vet-recommended dental care products, calming aids, and health essentials to help you care for your cat at every stage. You can keep your feline friend feeling their best with the right tools and support.