I'm hoping to get some advice or maybe just a little reassurance here. A couple of weeks ago, I had to take my cat, Luna, to the vet for a tooth extraction. She's been doing okay for the most part, eating well and generally acting like her usual curious self, but I've noticed something that has me a bit worried. Every now and then, she'll start drooling, which is really unusual for her. It's not constant, but it happens enough that it's caught my attention, and I'm not sure if it's normal after the procedure or if I should be concerned about something else going on. She's an older cat, so I'm trying to be extra cautious with her health. The drooling seems to happen more when she's resting or purring, and I'm not sure if it's because of any discomfort or if I'm just overthinking things. Has anyone else experienced this after their cat's dental work? I'd really appreciate any thoughts or shared experiences. Thanks!
Hello there!
I’m glad you reached out about your cat's drooling after a tooth extraction. This can be quite common, especially as they heal. Drooling can occur due to residual discomfort, the feeling of numbness as anesthesia wears off, or just the unfamiliar sensation in their mouth after the procedure.
At home, make sure your cat has a quiet, comfortable place to relax. Soft foods may be easier on their mouth right now, so consider offering them meals that are gentle to eat. Ensure your cat is drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can sometimes increase drooling.
It’s important to watch for signs that might indicate a more serious issue. If your cat's drooling is accompanied by bad breath, significant swelling, refusal to eat, bleeding, or persistent pawing at their mouth, it’s time to take a closer look. These could suggest an infection or that something isn't healing as it should.
If you notice these signs or if the drooling doesn’t gradually improve, I recommend booking a video consult with a vet here on Dial A Vet. That way, we can visually assess your cat and decide the best next steps together.
Take care and give your cat a gentle cuddle from me!
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