Both panting and drooling in cats can be perfectly normal, but when it occurs in excess, it can be a sign of a larger problem. Cats often drool when they purr or when they see food, while panting is common in very hot weather. So how do you know when it’s more than just normal behavior?
drooling
One of the most common reasons cats drool excessively is because they have problems with their mouths or teeth. Tartar buildup can rub against the inside of the cat’s mouth and cause drooling, and this can be controlled by pulling the lip toward the ear. If the teeth are brown or look like cement or the gums are red, swollen or bleeding, this is a sign of a problem and a visit to the vet is in order.
Drooling can also occur when a cat has trouble swallowing or has a bad taste in the mouth. Swallowing problems can arise when they ate something that partially blocked their throat or even wrapped it around their tongue. Similarly, if they have eaten something that tastes bad, drooling is a way to get rid of the taste.
Drooling can also be a side effect of certain diseases and infections, such as liver and kidney disease and upper respiratory infections.
Panting
Panting is the normal way a cat lowers its body temperature, especially after exercise. They pant to allow water to evaporate from the mouth, tongue, and lungs, as well as to exchange warm air for cool air. They also cool off by licking their fur and sweating through their paw pads. However, if the panting becomes heavy, rapid, or accompanied by anxiety, then this may be part of a larger problem. Some cats also pant when they are scared.
Rapid breathing is similar to panting and can be caused by injury, fever, stress, or being too hot. It can also be a side effect of conditions such as dehydration, lung and heart disease, and even a buildup of toxic substances in the blood as a result of diabetes or kidney failure. A vet may need x-rays or other checks to establish the exact cause.
drooling and panting
Some breeds of cats with flat faces, such as Persians, are prone to heat stroke, although this is not as common in cats as it is in other fur-bearing animals. It can happen if they have had too much sun and too little water and will result in drooling and panting. Make sure cats have easy access to water, and on hotter days, keep them in shady spots and limit the amount of exercise they get. If you think your cat may have heat stroke, contact your veterinarian immediately.
conclusion
Knowing the difference between normal panting and drooling and a sign of a problem comes down to observation – know what is normal for your cat and you will be able to spot when something is abnormal. Even if you just think there might be a problem, talk to your vet right away rather than risk your cat’s life.
