Do you ever wonder why cats dribble? You know the drool—the wet stains on your couch and furniture that come with having a kitty as part of the family. It’s not a particularly glamorous topic, but as any cat lover knows there are always lots of questions when it comes to our cats’ behavior and health, so let’s take some time to learn more about feline drool!
From why it happens in the first place through how to keep your furniture clean afterward, we’ll go over everything you need to know about cats’ tendency for dribbling.
Is it normal for cats to dribble?
Many pet owners have noticed that their cats seem to be extra drooly at times, but they may not realize that this dribbling is normal behavior for felines.
Cats tend to commit a process known as bubble strutting, in which they drag their comically large tongues over surfaces to slake thirst or clean themselves. This often results in taking in a hearty amount of saliva and drooling while they move, which can seem embarrassing but is generally caused by the cat’s saliva glands working overtime.
Fortunately, these episodes are typically quite harmless and don’t point to any larger health problems. In other words – yes, it is completely normal for cats to dribble!
Why do cats dribble when being stroked?
Have you ever been lovingly petting your cat and noticed the drool start to develop? It can come as a surprise to many, but this seemingly strange behavior is quite normal.
Scientists believe that cats dribble when being stroked due to an instinctive response called the “contented face”. When their skin is stimulated in this way, it can make them enter into a trance-like state and thus cause them to salivate as they enjoy the moment! While some suggest that cats do not have the same emotion-based response humans do to petting, research has shown us that they certainly enjoy it and see it as a sign of affection.
So if your beloved feline starts drooling while you stroke them, just remember – it means they are happy!
Should I be worried if my cat is drooling?
If your cat is drooling, it may cause you to be concerned. This is especially true if the drooling is sudden; cats usually do not drool unless something is wrong.
It could be evidence of a dental infection, which can cause pain and loss of appetite. It could even be a sign that your cat has been poisoned by houseplants, pesticides, or other toxins in your home. If your cat is drooling, keep an eye out for other signs of illness like difficulty breathing, weakness and lethargy, difficulty eating or drinking, or changes in behavior.
If you observe any of these things in your cat while they are drooling, it’s best to take them to the vet right away.
What is the treatment for cat drooling?
Cat drooling is a symptom of an underlying condition, and is essential to treating it effectively. Treatment may vary depending on what initially caused the drooling, such as if it is caused by dental disease, intestinal disorders, obstruction, or poisoning.
To determine the cause, a veterinarian will most likely do a physical exam, take x-rays and request blood work. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment could be anything from antibiotics to surgery or behavioral modification to manage anxiety or stress that could be causing the salivation.
Owners need to provide their cats with consistent at-home care and follow-up trips to the vet whenever necessary.
Why does my cat drool and lick me?
Have you ever noticed your cat drooling and licking you? You may have wondered why it does this, and the answer lies in how cats communicate. Cats communicate with one another using pheromones as well as their body language and vocalizations.
Those same pheromones can also be secreted when they groom themselves or each other, which can explain why a cat might lick or drool on its human companion. The excess saliva produced is an indication of contentment and comfort, so whenever your pet presents you with affection in this way, it’s their way of showing your love!
Wrapping Up: Why Do Cats Dribble?
Cat drooling can have a variety of possible causes, ranging from psychological to medical. Ultimately, if your cat is exhibiting any concerning symptoms such as excessive drooling, changes in behavior, or trouble breathing, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away so they can identify the cause and develop treatment options.
By understanding why cats drool and knowing the signs of potential health issues, you can ensure that your cat remains happy and healthy. With regular checkups with your veterinarian and adequate care at home, you can provide the best possible life for your feline friend!
