Problems of several body systems may cause this.
Diseases of the digestive tract (especially the oral cavity, throat or esophagus), the liver and the central nervous system may produce excessive salivation. Gastrointestinal irritation or inflammation frequently stimulates the salivary glands to oversecrete. Ulcers and other erosions of the oral cavity, gum disease, stomach ulcers, and throat irritation from numerous causes are all likely to cause excessive salivation. Gingivitis and stomatitis (inflammation of the gums and oral cavity, respectively) are common problems of cats. Most affected cats will display some signs of oral pain or eating difficulty if there is significant dental or gum disease, but these signs are sometimes overlooked. Neoplasms (tumors), foreign bodies, viral upper respiratory infections, and a number of immune-mediated conditions may also cause excessive salivation. Cats with feline leukemia will experience ptyalism as well. Cat and dog patients with liver or kidney dysfunction may salivate excessively because of metabolic toxins that are not cleared by these organs. Ptyalism is a common sign of hepatic encephalopathy associated with portosystemic shunt, a vascular abnormality involving the liver. When a cat or dog has liver failure or dysfunction, the owner will likely notice other associated behavioral changes as well. Uremia associated with kidney disease also produces excessive salivation. Rabies and seizure disorders may cause ptyalism. Generally, any disorder that causes dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing) or facial nerve palsy will cause excessive salivation. Exposure to or ingestion of toxic or caustic substances may produce excessive amounts of saliva. Insecticides, medications, and insect and animal venom will produce ptyalism. Cats seem especially sensitive to the actions of various substances in the environment, such as plant saps and household cleaners. Pseudoptyalism is frequently seen in large breed dogs. It may be caused by dyssymmetry or deformity of the mouth or lips, neurological problems, or swallowing disorders. Please have your cat examined by your veterinarian. Excessive salivation may signal a potentially serious disorder.
