It’s a common scene for many cat lovers: you’re petting your feline friend, they’re purring contentedly, and then you notice it – a little bit of drool making its way out of their mouth. While dogs are often stereotyped as the drooling champions, cats can and do drool too. But why does this happen, especially when you’re showering them with affection?
Drooling, also medically known as hypersalivation or ptyalism, simply means saliva is escaping the mouth instead of being swallowed. This can occur for various reasons, ranging from perfectly normal feline contentment to underlying health issues. So, when does happy purring turn into a sign that something might be amiss?
Is My Cat’s Drooling During Petting Normal?
Yes, in many cases, a little drool when you’re petting your cat is perfectly normal, and even a sign of a very happy and relaxed kitty. Just like purring, drooling in these moments can be a positive indicator that your cat is feeling safe, loved, and utterly content.
However, it’s crucial to distinguish between normal, happy drooling and excessive drooling, or drooling that appears in different contexts. If you’re noticing a significant increase in drool, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it’s always wise to consult with your veterinarian. They can help determine if the drooling is just a quirk of your happy cat or a sign of something that needs medical attention.
Image of a relaxed cat being petted under the chin
Alt text: Happy cat purring and drooling slightly while being petted under the chin, illustrating relaxed feline behavior.
Decoding the Drool: Why Cats Drool When Petted
There are several reasons why your cat might drool when you pet them, and understanding these can help you determine if it’s a cause for celebration or concern.
The Blissed-Out Drool: Relaxation and Happiness
If your cat starts to drool as you pet them, especially when they are also purring, kneading their paws, or exhibiting other signs of relaxation like slow blinking, chances are you’ve simply hit the happiness jackpot. This type of drooling is often linked to:
- Endorphin Release: Just like in humans, happy experiences in cats trigger the release of endorphins, natural chemicals that act as mood boosters and pain relievers. These endorphins can also stimulate the salivary glands, leading to increased saliva production and drooling.
- Purring and Kneading Connection: Purring and kneading are often associated with contentment and comfort in cats, harking back to their kittenhood. These behaviors, when combined with petting, can create a state of deep relaxation that manifests as drooling in some cats.
- Kittenhood Nurturing Reflex: Some experts believe that happy drooling in cats is a leftover behavior from when they were kittens nursing from their mothers. The contentment and security they felt during nursing are now triggered by pleasurable experiences like petting, leading to a similar physiological response, including drooling.
If your cat only drools when you are petting them and they are clearly enjoying it, there’s usually no need to worry. Consider it a compliment – you’re doing a great job making your feline friend feel loved and secure!
When Drooling Might Signal a Problem: Beyond Happy Petting
While happy drooling is common, it’s essential to be aware of other potential causes of drooling in cats, especially if it’s not solely associated with petting or relaxation. Drooling can also be a symptom of:
Stress and Anxiety
Just as endorphins can be released during happy moments, they can also be triggered by stress and fear. In stressful situations, drooling can be a sign of anxiety. This type of drooling is often accompanied by other stress signals, such as:
- Vocalization (excessive meowing, hissing, or growling)
- Flattened ears
- Dilated pupils
- Attempting to escape or hide
Common anxiety triggers for cats include car rides, vet visits, loud noises, or changes in their environment. If your cat drools during these situations, anxiety might be the culprit.
Nausea
Drooling is a common sign of nausea in cats. If your cat is experiencing nausea, whether from motion sickness during car travel, eating something that upset their stomach, or underlying health issues, they might drool. Nausea-related drooling may be accompanied by:
- Vomiting or retching
- Decreased appetite or refusal to eat
- Lethargy or hiding
Hairballs and gastrointestinal issues are common causes of nausea in cats that can lead to drooling.
Oral Pain and Dental Problems
Dental disease is a significant cause of drooling in cats. Pain and discomfort in the mouth can lead to excessive saliva production and difficulty swallowing, resulting in drooling. Dental problems that can cause drooling include:
- Gingivitis (gum inflammation)
- Tartar buildup
- Mouth ulcers
- Loose or broken teeth
- Oral cancer (though less common)
- Foreign objects lodged in the mouth
Drooling due to oral pain often comes with other telltale signs, such as:
- Bad breath
- Bloody saliva
- Pawing at the face or mouth
- Difficulty eating or chewing
- Decreased appetite
Regular dental checkups are crucial for preventing and managing oral health issues in cats.
Image of a cat with mouth open showing teeth, possibly illustrating dental issues
Alt text: Close-up of a cat’s mouth with teeth visible, potentially highlighting signs of dental disease or oral health issues that can cause drooling.
Toxins and Poisons
Exposure to certain toxins and poisons can cause drooling in cats. This can be due to irritation of the mouth and throat, nausea, or the toxin directly affecting saliva production. Common household toxins for cats include:
- Certain plants (lilies, poinsettias, etc.)
- Cleaning products
- Pesticides
- Some medications
If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxin, immediate action is crucial. Contact the Pet Poison Helpline® or your veterinarian immediately.
Medications
Some medications, especially liquid forms or bitter pills, can cause temporary drooling in cats. This is often due to the unpleasant taste, which stimulates saliva production.
Heatstroke
In very hot environments, cats can suffer from heatstroke, and drooling can be one of the symptoms. Heatstroke is a serious emergency and is often accompanied by:
- Heavy panting or rapid breathing
- Lethargy or weakness
- Increased body temperature
Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate veterinary attention.
Rabies
While rare, rabies is a severe viral disease that can cause excessive drooling in cats, along with neurological and behavioral changes. Rabies is almost always fatal and can be transmitted to humans, making vaccination crucial.
When Should You Worry About Cat Drooling?
While occasional drooling during petting is often harmless, it’s essential to know when drooling becomes a cause for concern. Consult your veterinarian if you observe any of the following:
- Sudden onset of drooling: If your cat starts drooling unexpectedly, especially if it’s not during petting or relaxing moments.
- Excessive drooling: A significant increase in the amount of drool compared to their normal.
- Drooling accompanied by other symptoms: Such as bad breath, bloody saliva, decreased appetite, vomiting, lethargy, hiding, changes in behavior, or difficulty breathing.
- Drooling in unusual contexts: Drooling that occurs outside of petting or relaxed situations, especially if it’s associated with stress, nausea, or potential toxin exposure.
It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your cat’s health. If you are unsure about the cause of your cat’s drooling, or if you have any concerns, schedule a veterinary checkup.
What to Do If Your Cat Is Drooling
If you’re concerned about your cat’s drooling, here are the recommended steps:
- Observe the Drooling: Note when and how often your cat drools, the amount of drool, and any accompanying symptoms.
- Check for Obvious Causes: Rule out any immediate causes like stress triggers, potential toxins, or medications.
- Schedule a Vet Visit: If the drooling is persistent, excessive, or accompanied by other symptoms, make an appointment with your veterinarian.
- Be Prepared to Answer Questions: Your vet will ask about the drooling, your cat’s behavior, diet, and environment. Providing detailed information will help them diagnose the cause.
- Follow Vet’s Recommendations: Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may recommend further tests to determine the underlying cause of the drooling and recommend appropriate treatment.
Drool Doesn’t Always Mean Distress
While it’s important to be aware of the potential medical reasons behind cat drooling, remember that a little drool during petting is often a wonderful sign of a happy, relaxed cat. Enjoy those purrs and the occasional happy drool – it’s just another way your cat shows you they love you!
Image of a cat being lovingly stroked on the head by a human hand
Alt text: A cat being affectionately stroked on the head, illustrating the loving interaction that can trigger happy drooling in felines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cat Drooling
Q: Why Does My Cat Drool When I Pet Him?
A: If your cat is drooling while purring and being petted, it’s most likely a sign of happiness and relaxation. This “happy drool” is often linked to endorphin release and may be a throwback to the contentment they felt as kittens nursing.
Q: What should I do if my cat is drooling excessively but acting normal?
A: Even if your cat seems to be acting normally, a sudden increase in drooling warrants a veterinary visit. Cats are masters at hiding illness, and excessive drooling can be an early sign of an underlying health issue. Schedule a checkup with your vet to be safe.
Q: Do cats drool when they are sick?
A: Yes, pain and illness are common causes of drooling in cats. If drooling is a new behavior for your cat, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it’s essential to have them evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out any medical problems.
This article is reviewed and approved by Dr. Jamie Lovejoy, DVM, a veterinarian at PetMD with expertise in feline health and behavior.
