Is It Normal for Cats to Drool?

Some cats produce a small amount of saliva when they're extremely relaxed or purring on their owner's lap.

This is usually harmless.

However, if your cat suddenly starts drooling, develops excessive saliva, or has saliva constantly dripping from their mouth, it's usually a sign that something is wrong.

In veterinary practice, one of the first places we investigate is the mouth.

The Most Common Cause: Dental Disease

Dental disease is one of the leading causes of drooling in adult cats.

Inflamed gums and infected teeth are painful. As the mouth becomes irritated, cats often produce extra saliva.

Other signs may include:

• Bad breath

• Red gums

• Difficulty chewing

• Preferring wet food

• Dropping food

• Weight loss

Many owners mistake these changes for "old age," when they're actually signs of a painful mouth.

Tooth Resorption – One of the Most Painful Dental Diseases in Cats

Unlike dogs, cats commonly develop tooth resorption.

In this condition, the body begins breaking down the tooth from the inside out.

The disease often starts below the gumline, meaning owners usually can't see it.

Cats with tooth resorption may:

• Suddenly drool while eating

• Chatter their jaw

• Cry out when chewing

• Drop food

• Chew on one side

• Paw at their mouth

• Avoid dry biscuits

Because the affected tooth is often hidden beneath the gumline, dental X-rays are usually needed to diagnose the condition.

Stomatitis

Some cats develop a severe inflammatory disease called stomatitis.

Instead of reacting normally to plaque bacteria, the immune system produces an excessive inflammatory response throughout the mouth.

These cats often experience:

• Profuse drooling

• Extremely bad breath

• Bright red gums

• Difficulty eating

• Weight loss

• Pain when opening the mouth

Stomatitis is one of the most painful oral diseases seen in cats and usually requires advanced dental treatment.

Gingivitis

Early gum inflammation can also make cats drool.

Fortunately, gingivitis is often reversible if treated before permanent damage develops.

Without treatment, it can progress to periodontal disease.

Foreign Objects in the Mouth

Grass blades, string, sewing thread, bones or other objects can become trapped in the mouth.

Cats with something stuck in their mouth often:

• Paw at their face

• Gag

• Drool suddenly

• Refuse food

• Shake their head

Never pull string from your cat's mouth, as it may be wrapped around the tongue or extend into the intestines, where pulling could cause serious injury.

Poisoning and Toxic Plants

Many household substances can irritate a cat's mouth and cause sudden drooling.

Examples include:

• Lily plants

• Household cleaning products

• Certain human medications

• Insecticides

• Some essential oils

Cats exposed to toxins may also vomit, become weak or develop difficulty breathing.

If poisoning is suspected, seek immediate veterinary attention.

Nausea

Cats feeling nauseated often drool before vomiting.

This may occur with:

• Gastrointestinal disease

• Kidney disease

• Liver disease

• Motion sickness

• Certain medications

Oral Tumours

Although less common than dental disease, cancers affecting the mouth can cause:

• Drooling

• Bleeding

• Bad breath

• Difficulty eating

• Loose teeth

• Facial swelling

Any persistent lump or ulcer inside the mouth should be assessed promptly.

How Can I Tell If My Cat's Drooling Is Caused by Dental Pain?

Look for these accompanying signs:

• Bad breath

• Red or bleeding gums

• Eating more slowly

• Preferring soft food

• Dropping biscuits

• Reduced grooming

• Weight loss

• Pawing at the mouth

• Hiding more than usual

Cats are exceptionally good at hiding pain, so even subtle behavioural changes are important.

How Do Veterinarians Find the Cause?

A complete examination may include:

• Oral examination

• General physical examination

• General anaesthesia if needed

• Full-mouth dental X-rays

• Periodontal probing

• Blood tests when appropriate

Dental X-rays are particularly important in cats because many painful conditions, including tooth resorption, occur below the gumline and cannot be diagnosed by looking at the visible part of the tooth alone.

How Is Drooling Treated?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

For dental disease, treatment commonly includes:

• Professional dental cleaning

• Full-mouth dental X-rays

• Tooth extractions when necessary

• Pain relief

• Antibiotics only when indicated

• Ongoing home dental care

If drooling is caused by poisoning, trauma or another medical condition, treatment will focus on that specific problem.

When Should I See a Veterinarian?

Arrange a veterinary examination if your cat:

• Suddenly starts drooling

• Has persistent drooling

• Refuses food

• Has bad breath

• Bleeds from the mouth

• Appears painful when eating

• Has swelling around the face or jaw

• May have chewed a toxic plant or chemical

Cats often hide illness until they are significantly affected, so early assessment is always recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

My cat only drools when purring. Is that normal?

Yes. Some cats drool a little when they're extremely relaxed or content. If the drooling only occurs during cuddles and your cat is otherwise healthy, it's usually not a cause for concern.

Why is my cat drooling while eating?

Drooling during meals commonly suggests oral pain, such as tooth resorption, gingivitis or a fractured tooth.

Can kittens drool?

Yes. Mild drooling can occur during teething, but persistent drooling in kittens should still be examined by a veterinarian.

Can stress cause drooling?

Yes. Some cats drool briefly during stressful events such as car travel or veterinary visits. However, ongoing drooling should never be assumed to be stress alone.

Is drooling always caused by dental disease?

No. While dental disease is one of the most common causes, drooling can also result from nausea, poisoning, oral injuries, foreign objects, neurological disease and oral tumours.

Key Takeaways

• Persistent drooling is not normal in cats.

• Dental disease is one of the most common causes.

• Tooth resorption and stomatitis are particularly painful feline dental diseases.

• Dental X-rays are often essential because many painful conditions develop below the gumline.

• Early veterinary treatment improves comfort, appetite and quality of life.

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Book Your Cat's Dental Assessment

 

If your cat has bad breath, yellow teeth or signs of dental disease, don't wait until the problem becomes painful.

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Early treatment is often simpler, more affordable and more comfortable for your cat.

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Contact Fortitude Valley Vet today to arrange a dental assessment and learn why so many Brisbane cat owners trust us for affordable, comprehensive dental care.

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Fortitude Valley Vet proudly cares for cats from:

• Fortitude Valley

• Newstead

• Teneriffe

• New Farm

• Bowen Hills

• Spring Hill

• Herston

• Kelvin Grove

• Paddington

• Red Hill

• Hamilton

• Windsor

• Albion

• Ashgrove

• Petrie Terrace

 

Many of our clients choose us because they want transparent pricing, modern dental equipment and compassionate veterinary care close to Brisbane's inner city.

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Reviewed by Dr Nic Cher, BVMS
Principal Veterinarian | Fortitude Valley Vet

Dr Nic Cher is a Brisbane veterinarian with over 15 years of experience caring for dogs and cats. He has a special interest in preventive healthcare, pet dentistry, pet longevity and helping owners make informed, evidence-based decisions to keep their pets healthier for longer.

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