I found out the hard way that Ragdoll cats most certainly do drool.
It happened one evening when I was laying on the couch watching TV – our pet Ragdoll, Poppie, jumped up onto me for a pat and as soon as I started scratching her under the chin (her favourite thing) she started purring but also salivating profusely.
My adorable, cute, cuddly Ragdoll was drooling all over the place. I was shocked. I had no idea Ragdolls drooled, but it turns out they definitely do.
So, to answer the question: do Ragdoll cats drool? Yes, absolutely. Ragdolls usually drool for either health related reasons, such as poor dental hygiene, mouth injuries or oral disease, or for non-health related reasons including because they’re happy, excited or content.
Thankfully, the reason my Ragdoll was slobbering all over the place was because she was enjoying her chin scratch, rather than because of a medical episode.
In this article, I’ll explain in more detail the reasons why Ragdolls drool and how to identify when it might be due to a health problem that needs further exploration.
What is drooling and is it common in Ragdoll cats?
Drooling, also known as hypersalivation, is the production of excess saliva that drips out of the mouth. While it’s normal for Ragdoll cats to produce saliva, excessive drooling that occurs at times when you’re not patting your cat can potentially be a sign of an underlying health issue or discomfort.
While Ragdoll cats aren’t known to be particularly prone to drooling, they can still create an uncontrollable amount of saliva when they’re extremely happy and content, or if they’re suffering from a dental issue.
Main causes of drooling in Ragdoll cats
There are several potential reasons why Ragdoll cats drool. The most common health-related causes include dental problems, oral infections, mouth injuries, and neurological disorders. Similarly, the non-health related reasons your Ragdoll may excessively salivate include being overly excited or happy.
Below, I’ve expanded more on the health and non-health related reasons that may lead your Ragdoll to drool.
Health-related reasons causing Ragdoll cats to drool
Dental problems/oral infections
Dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, or tooth abscess can cause pain and inflammation in your Ragdoll’s mouth, leading to excessive drooling.
Oral infections like stomatitis, gingivitis or periodontitis can also create the same problems. Regular dental check-ups and cleaning can help prevent and manage dental issues.
Mouth injuries
Injuries to your Ragdoll’s mouth, such as burns or cuts, can cause pain and swelling, which may also cause your cat to drool.
It’s important to keep your Ragdoll away from any hot household items – such as the oven, stove, iron or candles – to prevent them trying to lick them and burning themselves (after all, Ragdolls are very inquisitive).
You should seek veterinary care if your cat suffers any injuries like this.
Neurological disorders
Neurological disorders like seizures or nerve damage can cause Ragdoll cats to drool excessively. While these are much less likely reasons, they can and do occur (usually the result of genetics).
These conditions may require specialized care from a veterinarian.
Non health-related reasons causing Ragdoll cats to drool
Contentment
Some Ragdoll cats may drool when they’re feeling extremely relaxed and satisfied, such as when you’re cuddling them or showing them any kind of affection.
One could probably call this “happy drooling” and it’s likely a sign your cat is feeling comfortable and at ease.
Excitement
Ragdoll cats may also drool when they’re feeling excited or stimulated, such as during playtime or when they see their favorite toy.
This is often a normal response and nothing to be concerned about.
Old age
As cats get older, they may drool more due to age-related changes in their mouth and teeth.
While this may not be a cause for concern, it’s important to monitor your Ragdoll’s behavior and health as they grow older.
Environment
The environment in which your Ragdoll lives can also affect their drooling.
For example, a warm or humid temperature may cause your cat to salivate more than normal. Similarly, stress or anxiety caused by changes in routine or environment can also lead to excessive drooling.
How common is drooling in Ragdoll cats?
While drooling is not particularly common in Ragdoll cats, it’s important for owners to be aware of the potential causes and symptoms.
Some Ragdolls may drool occasionally, particularly if they’re stressed, anxious, excited or overstimulated.
However, if your cat suddenly starts drooling a lot constantly, it’s important to investigate the underlying cause and seek veterinary care.
How to manage excessive drooling in Ragdoll cats
If you find your Ragdoll’s drooling is getting out of control, there’s a few steps you can take to both rectify the issue but also seek professional advice.
I’ve outlined them below.
Veterinary care
If your Ragdoll is drooling more than usual, it’s best to book a vet appointment to determine the underlying cause.
Your vet may perform a physical exam, blood tests, or other diagnostic tests to identify the cause of the excessive salivation.
Dental care and oral hygiene
Regular dental care, including teeth cleaning and examination, can help prevent dental problems that can cause excessive drooling in Ragdolls.
Brushing your cat’s teeth daily and providing dental chews or toys can also help maintain good dental health.
Avoid stress
Stress and anxiety can also cause Ragdolls to drool uncontrollably.
Providing a comfortable and secure living space for your cat, avoiding sudden changes in routine or environment, and providing mental stimulation can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Good diet
Providing a well-balanced and nutritious diet can help prevent oral issues that are sometimes responsible for excessive drooling in Ragdoll cats.
It’s important to choose high-quality, whole-meat-based wet cat food combined with nutritious dry food (such as biscuits) and dental biscuits to ensure good oral and digestive health.
Final message
In summary, while Ragdoll cats aren’t known to drool excessively, that’s not to say they don’t.
While most drooling will be as a result of excitement, contentment or overstimulation and nothing to worry about, if you notice uncontrollable salivation occurring regularly, it’s best to book in an appointment to see a vet.
You don’t want to take any chances and should always rule out any serious possible underlying health conditions that may be causing the drooling.
