Cat Drooling When I Pet Him: Why?

Why Does My Cat Drool When I Pet Him?

The most common reason your cat drools when you pet them is happiness and relaxation. It’s often a sign of contentment, reminiscent of kittenhood. However, it’s important to rule out medical issues like dental problems, nausea, or anxiety, especially if the drooling is excessive or accompanied by other symptoms. This guide will walk you through the reasons, solutions, and insights to help you understand your cat’s drooling behavior.

Understanding the Causes of Drooling

Drooling, or ptyalism, in cats isn’t always a sign of a problem, but it can be. Let’s explore the possible causes:

1. The Happy Drool Scenario: Comfort and Relaxation

This is the most common reason for petting-induced drool. When a cat is content, being stroked can trigger a physiological response similar to nursing. This releases endorphins, promoting relaxation and triggering the salivary glands. This drooling is usually accompanied by:

• Purring: A loud, rumbling purr is almost always a good sign.
• Kneading: The rhythmic pushing of paws, mimicking nursing.
• Relaxed Posture: A loose, limp body, half-closed eyes, and a blissed-out expression.
• Predictability: The drooling occurs consistently during petting sessions.

2. Dental Issues: An Underlying Problem

Dental problems are a significant cause of excessive drooling in cats. Anything that irritates the mouth lining can cause excess salivation. Common dental issues include:

• Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums.
• Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease affecting tooth structures.
• Tooth Resorption: A painful condition where the tooth structure breaks down.
• Abscesses: Infections around the tooth roots.
• Foreign Objects: Small bones, splinters, or grass stuck in the mouth.

Dental problems often cause:

• Bad Breath: Halitosis is a key indicator.
• Difficulty Eating: Reluctance to eat, chewing on one side, or dropping food.
• Pawing at the Face: Attempts to dislodge irritants or relieve pain.
• Visible Gum Inflammation: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums.

3. Nausea and Gastrointestinal Issues

Just like humans, cats drool when nauseous. This is a protective mechanism. Causes of nausea can include:

• Hairballs: These can irritate the stomach lining.
• Motion Sickness: Car rides can trigger nausea.
• Dietary Indiscretion: Eating something they shouldn’t have.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.
• Kidney Disease: Can lead to a buildup of toxins, causing nausea.

Signs of nausea in cats:

• Vomiting or Regurgitation: Obvious signs of stomach upset.
• Loss of Appetite: Refusal to eat.
• Lethargy: Reduced energy levels.
• Lip Licking: Frequent licking of the lips.

4. Exposure to Toxins or Irritants

Cats may encounter substances that irritate their mouths, leading to drooling. This can include:

• Household Cleaners: Chemicals like bleach or ammonia can cause burns and irritation.
• Poisonous Plants: Lilies, for example, are highly toxic to cats.
• Medications: Some medications have a bitter taste that causes excessive salivation.
• Insecticides: Exposure to flea treatments or other insecticides.

Look for signs of:

• Excessive Drooling: Profuse salivation.
• Vomiting: Expelling stomach contents.
• Tremors: Shaking or twitching.
• Difficulty Breathing: Labored breathing or coughing.
• Seizures: Uncontrolled muscle activity.

5. Stress and Anxiety

Sometimes, psychological factors can cause drooling. A stressed or anxious cat may exhibit:

• Changes in Environment: Moving to a new home, introducing a new pet, or loud noises.
• Veterinary Visits: Many cats become anxious during vet exams.
• Separation Anxiety: Distress when left alone.

Other signs of stress:

• Hiding: Seeking secluded places to avoid interaction.
• Aggression: Hissing, swatting, or biting.
• Changes in Appetite: Eating more or less than usual.
• Inappropriate Urination: Urinating outside the litter box.

6. Other Medical Conditions

In rare cases, drooling can be a symptom of more serious medical conditions, such as:

• Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs): Can cause nasal congestion and drooling.
• Neurological Disorders: Affecting the nerves that control salivation.
• Tumors: Oral tumors can cause pain and excessive salivation.

Identifying the Type of Drool

Observing the circumstances and accompanying symptoms is crucial. Ask yourself:

• When does the drooling occur? Only during petting? After eating? At random times?
• How much drool is produced? A small amount? A constant stream?
• Are there any other symptoms? Bad breath? Difficulty eating? Vomiting? Lethargy?

Solutions and Management

Once you have a better understanding of the potential causes, you can take steps to address the issue.

• Vet Visit: If you suspect a medical problem, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian immediately.
• Dental Care: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for preventing and treating dental issues.
• Dietary Adjustments: If nausea is suspected, try feeding your cat smaller, more frequent meals.
• Environmental Enrichment: Provide a stimulating and safe environment to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Toxin Prevention: Keep household cleaners and poisonous plants out of reach.
• Calming Aids: Feliway diffusers or calming treats may help reduce stress.

My Experience & Quick Fix

With Jasper, I initially panicked. But after a thorough examination, the vet confirmed his teeth were perfect, his appetite was healthy, and there were no signs of nausea or other illness. It was purely happy drool! What really clinched it for me was the predictability – it only happened when I scratched him behind his ears, his favorite spot.

My Quick Fix: I simply kept a small, soft cloth nearby during petting sessions. A quick wipe kept the drool at bay, and honestly, it became a sign of just how loved he was.

Furthermore, I took some steps to keep his teeth in great shape by:

These simple preventative measures gave me peace of mind and kept Jasper healthy and happy.

When to See a Veterinarian

It’s always best to err on the side of caution. Consult with your vet if you observe any of the following:

• Sudden onset of drooling.
• Excessive drooling.
• Drooling accompanied by other symptoms.
• Changes in eating habits.
• Lethargy or weakness.
• Signs of pain or discomfort.

By being observant and proactive, you can help your cat live a long, happy, and relatively drool-free life (or at least manage the drool with a strategically placed cloth!). Remember, understanding your cat’s individual behaviors and triggers is key to providing the best possible care. Now go give your feline friend a good scratch and maybe keep a towel handy – you never know when the purrs and the drool might start flowing!