Why Is My Cat Swallowing A Lot: Causes and Solutions

If you’re noticing your cat swallowing a lot, it’s important to know that cat swallowing excessively, also referred to as feline excessive swallowing, can stem from various underlying issues, ranging from minor irritations to more serious medical conditions. The most common reasons for this behavior include a cat throat irritation, a cat feeling of something stuck, or a cat swallowing air.

It’s normal for cats to swallow when they eat, drink, or groom. However, an increase in this behavior, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like drooling, gagging, or changes in appetite, warrants a closer look. This detailed guide will explore the many reasons why your cat might be swallowing more than usual and what you can do to help.

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Common Culprits Behind Feline Excessive Swallowing

When your feline friend seems to be swallowing constantly, it’s crucial to investigate what might be causing this change in their behavior. The reasons can be quite diverse, impacting their throat, digestive system, or even their overall well-being.

Oral and Throat Issues

Problems within the mouth and throat are frequent culprits for cat swallowing excessively. Anything that causes discomfort or a feeling of obstruction can lead to increased swallowing attempts.

Foreign Objects in the Mouth or Throat

Cats are curious creatures and can sometimes ingest small objects that get lodged in their mouths or throats. This could be anything from a piece of string or a small toy to a piece of bone or plastic.

• Signs to Look For:
  • Excessive drooling
  • Paw-licking at the mouth
  • Paw-ing at the face or mouth
  • Vomiting or retching
  • Difficulty eating or drinking
  • Visible swelling in the mouth or throat
  • Changes in vocalization (e.g., meowing more or less)

If you suspect a foreign object, do not try to remove it yourself unless it is clearly visible and easily accessible. It is best to seek veterinary attention immediately.

Dental Problems

Dental disease is incredibly common in cats and can cause significant pain and discomfort, leading to increased swallowing.

• Gingivitis and Periodontitis: Inflammation and infection of the gums can make eating painful.
• Tooth Fractures: A broken tooth exposes sensitive nerves, causing cat throat discomfort.
• Abscesses: Infections at the root of a tooth can lead to swelling and pain.

A cat experiencing cat difficulty swallowing due to dental issues might also exhibit bad breath, reluctance to eat dry food, or dropping food from their mouth. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are vital for preventing and managing these problems.

Infections and Inflammation

Various infections and inflammatory conditions can affect a cat’s oral cavity and pharynx, prompting the feline excessive swallowing response.

• Pharyngitis: Inflammation of the pharynx (throat) can cause pain and a sensation of something being stuck.
• Tonsillitis: Swollen tonsils can make swallowing difficult and uncomfortable.
• Oral Tumors or Growths: Lumps or tumors in the mouth or throat can obstruct the passage of food and water, leading to persistent swallowing.

These conditions can often be diagnosed by a veterinarian through a physical examination and, if necessary, further diagnostic tests.

Laryngeal Issues

The larynx, or voice box, plays a crucial role in breathing, vocalization, and swallowing. Problems here can directly impact a cat’s ability to swallow comfortably.

• Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx can cause a sore throat and a cat choking sensation.
• Laryngeal Paralysis: This rare condition can impair the function of the larynx, making swallowing challenging.

A cat with laryngeal issues might also exhibit changes in their meow or struggle to breathe.

Digestive Tract Concerns

Beyond the immediate oral and throat areas, issues further down the digestive tract can also manifest as increased swallowing.

Esophageal Problems

The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Any disruption in its function can lead to a cat swallowing a lot.

• Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus, often caused by vomiting, acid reflux, or irritation from ingested foreign material, can make swallowing painful. Cats might swallow frequently to try and soothe the discomfort or clear a perceived obstruction.
• Esophageal Strictures: Narrowing of the esophagus, usually due to scar tissue from previous inflammation or surgery, can create a physical blockage, causing a cat difficulty swallowing.
• Megaesophagus: In this condition, the esophagus fails to move food down to the stomach properly. Food can accumulate, leading to regurgitation and frequent swallowing attempts.
• Foreign Bodies in the Esophagus: Similar to the mouth, objects can become lodged in the esophagus.

Symptoms can include vomiting after eating or drinking, weight loss, and repeated swallowing.

Gastrointestinal Upset

While less direct, general digestive upset can sometimes trigger behaviors that mimic excessive swallowing.

• Nausea: A feeling of nausea can cause a cat to swallow repeatedly, sometimes referred to as “lip-licking” or “mouth-watering,” which can be accompanied by swallowing.
• Acid Reflux: When stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, it can cause irritation and a burning sensation, leading to a cat throat irritation and subsequent swallowing.

This can be a symptom of various underlying gastrointestinal issues, including inflammatory bowel disease or dietary sensitivities.

Behavioral and Environmental Factors

Sometimes, the reasons behind feline excessive swallowing are not purely physical but linked to the cat’s environment or behavior.

Anxiety and Stress

Cats can exhibit unusual behaviors when they are stressed or anxious. This can include excessive grooming, vocalization, and, for some, increased swallowing.

• Environmental Changes: Moving to a new home, the introduction of a new pet or person, or loud noises can trigger anxiety.
• Separation Anxiety: Some cats may display behavioral changes when left alone.

The swallowing might be a displacement behavior, a way for the cat to self-soothe or cope with their unease. This might be mistaken for a cat swallowing air if they are gulping nervously.

Seeking Attention

Some cats learn that certain behaviors get them attention from their owners. If your cat has previously received comfort or interaction when they swallowed, they might repeat the behavior to solicit more attention.

Behavioral Pica

Pica is a condition where animals eat non-food items. While not directly causing swallowing, some cats with pica might ingest things like plastic or fabric, which could lead to a cat feeling of something stuck or cat throat irritation.

Other Medical Conditions

Several other medical conditions can indirectly lead to cat swallowing a lot.

Neurological Disorders

Disorders affecting the nerves that control swallowing can lead to difficulties.

• Rabies: Although rare, rabies can cause neurological symptoms including difficulty swallowing and excessive salivation. This is a serious condition requiring immediate veterinary attention.
• Other Neurological Diseases: Conditions affecting the brain or nerves can impair motor control, impacting the swallowing reflex.

Respiratory Issues

When a cat has breathing difficulties, they might resort to swallowing air to compensate, leading to cat swallowing air.

• Nasal Congestion: If a cat cannot breathe easily through their nose, they may be forced to breathe through their mouth, leading to more air swallowing and subsequent swallowing attempts.
• Asthma or Bronchitis: Inflammatory conditions of the airways can cause distress and altered breathing patterns.

Systemic Illnesses

Various systemic illnesses can affect a cat’s overall health, including their ability to swallow comfortably.

• Kidney Disease: As kidney disease progresses, cats can become nauseous and dehydrated, sometimes leading to excessive swallowing.
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to various symptoms, including changes in thirst and appetite, which might influence swallowing behavior.

Recognizing the Signs: When to Worry

While occasional increased swallowing might not be a cause for alarm, certain accompanying symptoms are red flags that indicate your cat needs immediate veterinary attention.

• Sudden onset of excessive swallowing.
• Vomiting or regurgitation.
• Difficulty eating or drinking (cat difficulty eating).
• Drooling excessively.
• Lethargy or weakness.
• Weight loss.
• Changes in breathing.
• Visible pain or distress.
• Frequent gagging or coughing (cat gagging frequently).
• A clear choking sensation.

If you observe any of these signs in conjunction with increased swallowing, contact your veterinarian right away.

Diagnostic Approaches for Feline Excessive Swallowing

Diagnosing the cause of feline excessive swallowing often requires a multi-faceted approach by your veterinarian. They will aim to pinpoint the exact reason your cat is exhibiting this behavior.

Veterinary Examination

The first and most crucial step is a thorough physical examination by your veterinarian.

• History Taking: The vet will ask you detailed questions about your cat’s behavior, diet, recent changes, and any other symptoms you’ve observed.
• Oral Examination: This is vital for identifying dental issues, foreign objects, inflammation, or growths in the mouth and throat. Sedation might be required for a complete oral examination, especially if your cat is in pain or defensive.
• Palpation: The vet will feel your cat’s neck and abdomen to check for any abnormalities, such as enlarged lymph nodes or masses.
• General Physical Assessment: Checking vital signs, hydration status, and overall body condition.

Diagnostic Tests

Based on the initial findings, your veterinarian may recommend further tests to reach a definitive diagnosis.

Blood Work

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Can reveal signs of infection, inflammation, or anemia.
• Biochemistry Profile: Assesses organ function (kidneys, liver), electrolytes, and blood sugar levels, helping to identify systemic illnesses.

Imaging Techniques

• X-rays (Radiographs): Can help identify foreign objects in the throat or esophagus, dental disease, or bone abnormalities. They can also sometimes visualize enlarged lymph nodes or masses.
• Ultrasound: Provides detailed images of soft tissues, useful for examining the throat, esophagus, and abdominal organs.
• Endoscopy: A procedure where a small, flexible camera is inserted into the esophagus or stomach. This allows for direct visualization of the lining, detection of inflammation, foreign objects, or tumors, and the ability to take biopsies if needed. This is particularly useful for diagnosing cat throat irritation or esophageal issues.

Other Tests

• Barium Swallow Study: If an esophageal obstruction or motility disorder is suspected, a barium swallow study can highlight the passage of food through the esophagus.
• Pharyngeal Swabs/Cultures: If a bacterial or viral infection is suspected in the throat, swabs can be taken for laboratory analysis.
• Neurological Examination: If a neurological cause is suspected, a specialized neurological exam may be performed.

Treatment Strategies for Feline Excessive Swallowing

The treatment plan for your cat will entirely depend on the underlying cause identified by your veterinarian.

Oral and Dental Treatments

If the cause is related to the mouth or teeth, treatment will focus on resolving these specific issues.

• Dental Cleanings and Extractions: For dental disease, professional cleaning under anesthesia is essential. Severely damaged or infected teeth may need extraction.
• Foreign Object Removal: Veterinarians can often remove foreign objects from the mouth or throat under sedation or anesthesia.
• Medications: Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed for infections or inflammation.
• Surgery: In cases of tumors or severe obstructions, surgical intervention might be necessary.

Esophageal and Gastrointestinal Treatments

Disorders of the esophagus or digestive tract require targeted therapies.

• Dietary Management: For issues like esophagitis or megaesophagus, feeding smaller, more frequent meals, or using softened or liquid food can help.
• Medications:
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 Blockers: To reduce stomach acid and manage reflux.
  • Antibiotics: For bacterial infections.
  • Prokinetics: To improve esophageal motility.
• Fluid Therapy: To prevent dehydration, especially if the cat is not eating or drinking well.
• Esophageal Dilation: For strictures, a procedure to widen the esophagus may be performed.

Behavioral Treatments

If anxiety or stress is identified as a contributing factor, the approach will be different.

• Environmental Enrichment: Providing toys, scratching posts, and interactive play can help reduce stress.
• Pheromone Diffusers: Products like Feliway can create a calming environment.
• Behavioral Modification Training: Working with a certified animal behaviorist might be beneficial.
• Anxiolytic Medications: In some severe cases, your vet might prescribe anti-anxiety medication.

Treating Systemic Illnesses

If the swallowing is a symptom of a broader medical condition, treatment will focus on managing that primary illness. This might involve long-term medication, dietary changes, or specialized veterinary care.

Home Care and Prevention

While you should always consult your veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment plan, there are several things you can do at home to support your cat’s health and potentially prevent some issues that lead to feline excessive swallowing.

Promoting Good Oral Hygiene

• Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule annual or semi-annual veterinary dental assessments.
• Dental Diet: Consider a prescription dental diet that helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
• Dental Treats and Toys: Some products are designed to promote dental health.
• Brushing (if tolerated): If your cat tolerates it, daily brushing with a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste can be very effective.

Ensuring a Safe Environment

• Keep Small Objects Out of Reach: Securely store items like string, rubber bands, small toys, and plastic packaging to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Secure Trash Cans: Prevent your cat from accessing discarded food items or sharp objects.

Monitoring Diet and Water Intake

• High-Quality Food: Feed a balanced, high-quality diet appropriate for your cat’s age and health status.
• Fresh Water: Ensure constant access to fresh, clean water. If your cat has kidney issues, your vet might recommend specific strategies to increase water intake.

Managing Stress and Anxiety

• Routine: Maintain a consistent daily routine for feeding, play, and interaction.
• Safe Spaces: Provide your cat with quiet, safe places to retreat when feeling stressed.
• Gradual Introductions: When introducing new pets or people, do so slowly and gradually.

Observing Your Cat Closely

• Know Your Cat’s Normal: Pay attention to your cat’s typical behaviors, including their eating and swallowing habits. Any significant change warrants attention.
• Record Symptoms: If you notice new or worsening symptoms, keep a journal to record them, including the date, time, and severity. This information is invaluable for your veterinarian.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can stress make my cat swallow a lot?
A1: Yes, stress and anxiety can manifest in various behaviors, including increased swallowing. This can be a displacement activity to help them cope with feelings of unease.

Q2: Is swallowing air a serious problem for cats?
A2: Swallowing air (aerophagia) itself isn’t typically a sign of a serious problem unless it becomes excessive or is accompanied by other symptoms like bloating, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. It can occur due to anxiety, eating too quickly, or nasal congestion.

Q3: My cat keeps gagging and swallowing, what should I do?
A3: If your cat is frequently gagging and swallowing, it suggests irritation or a blockage in their throat. You should contact your veterinarian immediately to rule out foreign objects, infections, or other serious conditions.

Q4: Can a sore throat cause a cat to swallow excessively?
A4: Absolutely. A cat throat irritation or any condition causing pain or discomfort in the throat, such as pharyngitis or tonsillitis, can lead to a cat swallowing a lot as they try to alleviate the sensation.

Q5: What if my cat has difficulty eating and swallows a lot?
A5: Cat difficulty eating coupled with feline excessive swallowing is a significant concern. It strongly suggests an issue within the oral cavity or esophagus, such as dental pain, a foreign object, or an inflammatory condition. Seek veterinary advice promptly.

By understanding the potential causes and recognizing the warning signs, you can provide your cat with the best possible care and ensure their well-being. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and consult your trusted veterinarian.