Maine Coon Drooling: Reasons & When To Worry

Have you ever been cuddling your Maine Coon, but found they’ve started drooling on you? You’re not alone! These cats are known for their affectionate nature, expressing their contentment through purrs, head bumps, and sometimes even a bit of drool.

Drooling is often a sign your cat is relaxed and happy when they’re close to you. But while a dribble here and there can be endearing, pet parents need to understand when this behavior signals something more serious.

In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons behind Maine Coon drooling, exploring the joyful causes as well as those that might warrant a closer look.

What Is Drooling?

Drooling occurs for a range of reasons and is the act of saliva flowing outside of the cat’s mouth.

This behavior is often observed when a cat is in a state of total relaxation and contentment. However, drooling can also be a physiological response to certain stimuli or a symptom of underlying health issues.

Normal Vs. Abnormal Drooling

Normal Drooling

Normal drooling is often observed in cats during moments of great pleasure or relaxation. For example, while being petted, some cats may drool slightly due to their contentment.

This type of drooling is generally sporadic and doesn’t come with any other concerning symptoms. It’s simply a sign that they are enjoying the moment and feeling particularly at ease.

Abnormal Drooling

Abnormal drooling, on the other hand, is persistent and may be accompanied by other symptoms of illness. These can include:

• Bad breath
• A noticeable change in appetite or drinking habits
• Pawing at the mouth
• Signs of pain and discomfort

Abnormal drooling can be indicative of several health issues, including:

Here’s the revised table with the “Associated Symptoms” column removed, focusing solely on the causes and descriptions of drooling:

If you notice a sudden increase in drooling or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, consult a veterinarian to rule out any serious health issues.

Common Reasons For Drooling

Pleasure And Contentment

Drooling in Maine Coons can often be a manifestation of pleasure and contentment. This behavior is typically observed when these cats are in a state of relaxation, such as during petting sessions or while they are purring contentedly.

This physiological response can be likened to an involuntary expression of happiness, akin to a human smiling when joyful.

Given their affectionate nature, Maine Coons may exhibit drooling as a sign they feel secure and loved. This type of drooling usually occurs during moments of happiness:

• While being groomed
• During affectionate interactions with family members
• While resting comfortably

Stress Or Anxiety

Drooling in Maine Coons can also indicate stress or anxiety. Such physiological responses typically arise in situations that are unfamiliar or uncomfortable for the cat.

For example, car rides, which are common stressors for many pets, can lead to anxiety-induced drooling in Maine Coons.

The unfamiliarity and constraints of being in a moving vehicle can evoke significant distress. This anxiety-driven response is often accompanied by other behavioral signs, including excessive vocalization, or reclusive behavior.

Although one of the most laid-back cat breeds in the world, your Maine Coon companion is more prone to stress and anxiety than you likely realize.

Scent Marking

Maine Coons may drool while engaging in scent-marking behaviors.

These cats possess scent glands in their cheeks, which release pheromones when they rub their face against objects, people, or other animals. This action serves to mark their territory.

While drooling is less commonly associated with scent marking, it can occur incidentally during intense marking sessions.

When a Maine Coon vigorously rubs its face to deposit scents, a mild amount of drooling may be observed. This is generally minimal and occurs as a secondary characteristic of the marking behavior rather than as a direct outcome.

Health-Related Causes Of Drooling

Drooling can often be a symptom of underlying health issues in cats. Understanding these causes is crucial for ensuring the proper care and treatment of feline health problems.

Here are several medical conditions that might lead to excessive drooling in cats:

Dental Issues

Dental problems are among the most common causes of excessive drooling in cats. Issues such as periodontal disease, inflamed gums, or tooth decay can lead to significant discomfort and result in increased saliva production.

1. Periodontal Disease

This is caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar, leading to inflamed and infected gums.

As the disease progresses, it can cause the gums to recede, and teeth to loosen, and may result in significant oral pain, manifesting as drooling.

2. Tooth Decay

Cavities can form in a cat’s teeth, particularly in those not aligned properly or in older cats. Decay leads to painful toothaches which can cause a cat to drool excessively.

3. Inflamed Gums

Conditions like gingivitis can make the gums very tender and sensitive, which can also provoke excessive drooling.

Learn more about the issues that affect Maine Coon Teeth, in this guide.

Oral Injuries Or Foreign Objects

Physical injuries inside the mouth like cuts, punctures, or lacerations, often from chewing on hard objects, rough play, or fighting, can lead to significant salivation.

Foreign objects that become lodged can also be a direct cause of drooling. If small items such as bones get stuck between teeth or under the tongue the discomfort and irritation from these objects can lead to drooling as the cat tries to dislodge it.

Other Medical Concerns

Various other systemic health issues can cause excessive drooling as a secondary symptom. These include:

Kidney Disease

Advanced kidney disease can lead to a buildup of toxins in the blood that can cause ulcers in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, resulting in drooling.

Liver Problems

Liver disease can affect metabolism and lead to various secondary symptoms, including nausea and excess saliva production.

Toxin Exposure

Ingestion of toxic substances, such as certain plants, household chemicals, or human medications, can cause immediate oral pain or gastrointestinal distress, which often results in drooling.

Acid Reflux

According to PetMD acid reflux in cats, also known as gastroesophageal reflux, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation that can cause drooling.

This condition might also result in symptoms like:

• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Discomfort

Cats with acid reflux might display increased drooling due to the irritation and nausea caused by the stomach acids in the esophagus.

Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections can cause drooling in cats due to a combination of symptoms including nasal discharge, throat inflammation, and the presence of oral ulcers, all of which can make swallowing painful or difficult.

Watch out for the following symptoms of respiratory infection:

• Runny nose
• Frequent Sneezing
• Fever

Common treatment methods:

• Antibiotics
• Fever Medication

Mouth Ulcers And Tumors

mouth ulcers and tumors are common causes of drooling in cats. These conditions can significantly affect a cat’s oral health and lead to increased saliva production or the inability to swallow saliva properly.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis in cats can lead to drooling due to pain, nausea, and general discomfort associated with the condition. When cats experience abdominal pain, they may drool more due to stress and discomfort.

Nausea, a common symptom of pancreatitis, also stimulates excess saliva production, contributing to drooling.

Additionally, the overall lethargy and weakness caused by pancreatitis may reduce a cat’s frequency of swallowing, allowing saliva to build up.

Immediate veterinary care is essential for managing pancreatitis, with treatments often including fluids, pain relief, and anti-nausea medication to alleviate symptoms and support recovery.

Heatstroke

Heat stroke can cause a Maine Coon, or any cat, to drool excessively. This occurs as their body struggles to cope with excessive heat, leading to overheating and stress that stimulates the salivary glands.

Other symptoms of heat stroke in cats include:

• Panting
• Reddened gums
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Coordination issues

To prevent heat stroke, ensure your Maine Coon has access to a cool, shaded environment and fresh water, especially during hot weather.

If you suspect heat stroke, immediate veterinary attention is crucial to prevent serious complications or death.

When To Worry

While occasional drooling in cats can be normal, especially if associated with positive situations like contentment or relaxation, the following symptoms, when observed in conjunction with drooling, should prompt a visit to the veterinarian:

Bad Breath

Persistent bad breath can indicate dental issues such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, or even digestive system problems.

Loss Of Appetite

If your cat is drooling excessively and showing a decreased interest in food, this could be a sign of oral pain or other systemic issues.

Pawing At The Mouth

This behavior suggests the cat is experiencing discomfort or pain in its mouth, which could be due to dental problems, injuries, or foreign objects lodged in the oral cavity.

Lethargy

Decreased energy levels combined with drooling can indicate a more serious condition, such as an infection, metabolic disease, or toxin exposure.

Visible Oral Abnormalities

Any noticeable changes in the mouth, such as swollen gums, lesions, or bleeding, coupled with drooling are clear indicators that veterinary intervention is needed.

Vomiting Or Gagging

If drooling is accompanied by vomiting, retching, or gagging, this could suggest gastrointestinal distress or poisoning.

Behavioral Changes

Spotting the following changes in your cat’s behavior or appetite, if accompanying drooling is critical:

• Changes in Drinking Habits: Increased or decreased drinking can be significant, especially if linked with drooling. These changes can signal kidney issues, diabetes, or other health concerns.
• Altered Eating Habits: Difficulty eating, dropping food from the mouth, or complete avoidance of eating can indicate oral pain or other health problems.
• Unusual Vocalization: Increased or unusual meowing can be a sign of distress or discomfort associated with the same causes leading to drooling.
• Changes in Social Behavior: Withdrawal from social interactions or a sudden change in temperament (e.g., increased irritability) can accompany the stress or pain causing the drooling.

Managing And Treating Drooling In Cats

Proper management of a cat’s drooling can range from simple home care adjustments to necessary professional veterinary intervention.

Understanding when and how to address drooling can help ensure your cat remains comfortable and healthy.

Home Care Tips

For minor cases of drooling, particularly those linked to pleasure or slight stress, here are some effective home care strategies:

• Ensure Fresh Water is Always Available: Keeping your cat well-hydrated is crucial. Freshwater aids in maintaining proper hydration and can help wash away any irritants in the mouth that might be causing drooling.
• Maintain a Calm Environment: Stress can often trigger drooling. Create a serene home environment by providing a quiet, safe space for your cat. This might include access to cozy hiding spots, minimal loud noises, and a routine that provides stability.
• Regular Oral Hygiene: While cats generally clean themselves, assisting them in dental care can prevent many issues. Brushing your cat’s teeth regularly with cat-specific toothpaste can help maintain dental health and reduce drooling caused by oral issues.
• Toys and Distractions: Provide ample toys and regular play to keep your cat engaged and distracted from stressors that might cause anxiety-induced drooling.

Professional Care

Regular professional care is essential in preventing many of the health issues associated with excessive drooling:

• Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine visits to the vet for dental examinations can catch early signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other oral health issues.
• Professional Cleanings: Sometimes, professional cleaning by a veterinarian is necessary to remove tartar and plaque that cannot be addressed by brushing alone.
• Health Screenings: Regular health checks can help identify other non-dental issues that might cause drooling.

Emergency Situations

In some cases, drooling can be indicative of an emergency that requires immediate veterinary care:

• Sudden Onset of Excessive Drooling: If your cat begins to drool excessively without a clear reason, especially if this is accompanied by distress, pain, vomiting, or difficulty breathing, it’s critical to seek immediate veterinary attention.
• Signs of Toxic Ingestion: If drooling is accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or neurological signs (such as tremors or seizures), it may indicate that your cat has ingested something toxic. Immediate veterinary intervention is crucial.
• Oral Trauma: If you suspect that your cat has sustained an injury to its mouth or has a foreign object lodged in its mouth, prompt veterinary care is necessary to address the injury and manage pain.

By understanding the appropriate steps to take, from home care to recognizing when professional help is needed, you can effectively manage your cat’s drooling and ensure their well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while drooling in Maine Coons can sometimes be a benign sign of their contentment and affectionate nature, it’s essential for owners to be aware of the circumstances and accompanying symptoms that differentiate normal drooling from potential health concerns.

From expressions of happiness during petting sessions to indicators of dental disease, oral injuries, or more serious systemic health issues, understanding the reasons behind your Maine Coon’s drooling is crucial.

By recognizing when drooling is a sign of pleasure and when it signals a need for veterinary attention, owners can ensure that their beloved cats receive the appropriate care they need to remain healthy and happy.