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My newly adopted cat is drooling, won't eat or drink. What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 10 lbs

hello my cat is drooling a lot and might have a kennel cold? i just adopted him. he's about 2 years old. his name is rigatoni. im afraid his cold is making him not want to eat or drink. forced some water down him with a dropper. what should i do to help him!!

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on August 14th, 2019

I recommend to have Rigatoni examined by the veterinarian. Drooling is a sign of serious inflammation or even oral ulcers. This is likely painful. A physical exam and medications will help him to feel better. He may also be dehydrated so it's best to have him examined today. I hope he feels better quickly and please feel free to post any additional questions.,

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on April 19th, 2018
You are probably right. The drooling could very well be related to a dental issue. It is also possible that he could also have an injury to the jaw (like a fracture) or a tumor/ulcers in his mouth.

The only recommendation I have for you is to get him to a vet as soon as you can. They will be able to figure out what is going on and then prescribe the best treatment so Ziggy can get back to feeling better. There is nothing you can do at home to fix any of the issues that may be causing his symptoms.

Best wishes.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on August 13th, 2022
Poor Peanut! If he is a stray cat, he could have been in a fight, or may have been hit by a car and injury. It's a medical emergency if he can't chew or drink, as he will starve to death or succumb to dehydration. He really needs to see a vet immediately. Please take him into a vet now for treatment. It's so lovely of you to look after him!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on December 8th, 2017
It sounds as he is suffering from oral ulcers/gum inflammation, it's a very common medical condition in cats. you need to take him to the vet ASAP in order to get it treated, he will probably need a steroid injection to start with.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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