Why Do Cats Drool: The Science Behind Your Kitty’s Habit

Drooling in cats is not as common as you might think.

In fact, only about 15% of all cats will drool at some point in their lives.

However, if your cat is one of the few that does drool, it can be quite a messy experience for you both!

So, why do some cats drool while others don’t?

We’re not entirely sure, but it could be because of a genetic predisposition, dental disease or because of something in their environment that triggers the reaction.

Either way, it’s important to keep an eye on your drooling cat and make sure they stay hydrated and comfortable.

Petpress explains the science behind this habit.

Why do cats drool sometimes?

There are a few reasons why cats might drool, and it’s important to know what they are so you can determine if your cat is healthy or not.

Here are five reasons why cats drool:

1. Nausea:

If your cat is feeling nauseous, they may start to drool. This is usually due to an upset stomach or eating something that disagreed with them.

If your cat is drooling and also vomiting, has a loss of appetite, or seems lethargic, it’s best to take them to the vet right away.

2. Dental problems:

If your cat’s teeth are causing them pain, they may start to drool. This is because they try to avoid using their teeth, which can be very sore.

Dental problems are common in cats, so it’s important to take them to the vet for a check-up and to clean every year or so.

3. Anxiety:

Cats can get anxious just like humans do, and when they do they may start to drool. If your cat is drooling and also seems agitated or stressed, it may be due to anxiety.

Try to provide your cat with a calm environment and plenty of love and attention.

4. Heatstroke:

When cats get too hot, they may start to drool in an effort to cool down.

If your cat is drooling and also has a high body temperature, is panting heavily, or seems weak or lethargic, they may be suffering from heatstroke.

Move them to a cool area and contact your vet right away.

5. Rabies:

Rabies is a serious viral infection that can be deadly for both humans and animals.

If your cat is drooling and also seems agitated or aggressive, has paralysis in their limbs, or appears to have difficulty swallowing, they may have rabies and need to see a vet immediately.

Is it normal for a cat to drool?

While it’s not exactly “normal” for a cat to drool, it’s also not entirely unusual.

In fact, some cats may drool more frequently than others.

There are a few reasons why your cat might be drooling more than usual, so it’s important to pay attention to any other changes in your feline friend’s behavior.

If your cat is drooling and acting otherwise normal, there’s likely no cause for alarm.

However, if your cat is also exhibiting other signs of illness, such as lethargy or a decreased appetite, you should take them to the vet to get checked out.

Should I be worried if my cat is drooling?

Is your cat’s drool a cause for concern? Here are five tips to help you solve the problem:

1. Check for foreign objects in your cat’s mouth. If you see something like a piece of string or grass, try to remove it carefully.

2. Make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water to drink. Dehydration can cause drooling.

3. Take your cat to the vet if the drooling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea.

4. Some cats drool when they’re stressed or anxious. Try to identify any potential sources of stress and eliminate them from your cat’s environment.

5. If all else fails, ask your vet about anti-anxiety medication. This can help to reduce drooling caused by stress or anxiety.

Conclusion

Cats typically drool when they are eating or drinking, or when they are being petted or scratched in just the right way.

So, if you notice your cat drooling while she’s indulging in her favorite activities, there’s no need to worry.

If your cat begins drooling excessively, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Also, try to keep your cat off counters in the kitchen as drooling in cats can be unhygienic,

If your cat is otherwise healthy and only drools occasionally, there’s no need to worry.

Just be sure to have some paper towels handy!