Cats do not normally drool. A drooling cat is a sign that the companion human needs to investigate why my cat is drooling. For a quick start, here are the top 3 reasons that your cat might be drooling.
Most plants are not toxic to cats. Avena sativa, the common oat grass, is known as cat grass due to its popularity among cat owners. A few plants are very toxic to cats. Humans should work to limit these plants if they have cats. Several lilies from the Lilium and Hemerocallis species commonly known as Tiger lilies, Daylilies, and Asiatic lilies are toxic to cats. Even a few leaves can cause your cat's kidneys to fail. Tulips, also in the lily family, cause hypersalivation if eaten by cats. If you find your cat has eaten one of these plants, call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline (1-855-764-7661) immediately. For the cat that keeps eating plants, grow cat grass (Avena sativa) to satisfy your feline's desire for a green salad.
Permethrin is a pyrethroid chemical commonly used to control insects. Permethrin is safe for most animals, except cats. Permethrin poisoning is one of the many ways cats get sick. As a cat owner, you need to be careful when buying dog flea treatments, dog shampoos, fly sprays, and ant powder. All of these insecticides may contain permethrin. Spend time reading labels – look for PERMETHRIN on the label. If you think your cat has been exposed, visit a veterinarian immediately. For more information on keeping a cat-safe home see catfriendly.com.
Did you ignore the pill that you dropped on the floor? Your cat found the pill, chewed and swallowed it. Ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen, and naproxen are 4 of the most common NSAIDs humans take to relieve pain. Did you know that these drugs are for humans, not pets? When your cat 'takes' one of these pills they can become very ill. Cats (and dogs) have pain pills that are specially formulated for them. Pain relief in cats requires the assistance of your vet to determine which feline NSAID is needed. A vet will give specific instructions to make ensure the correct dose is given, and that you know the signs of NSAID toxicity in your cat.
Find out what you need to keep your cats and dogs healthy and safe so they have the longest healthiest life possible. Visit Pet4CPR for information about treating pet emergencies today.
---- Julie Ellison, PhD
