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Why are my cats drooling brown, not eating, lethargic, smelly? Is it contagious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 8 months old | 5.2 lbs

Both my cats are not eating or drinking hiding and are very lethargic have bad smell from mouth and drooling with slight brownish drool from mouth what could it be ? Is it contagious?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 13th, 2016

There are some contagious viruses such as calicivirus that can cause ulcers in the mouth along with other upper respiratory signs such as sneezing and nasal discharge. It is also possible that both cats were exposed to a toxin or something caustic that injured their mouths if they go outdoors or have access to any chemicals. If their symptoms have been present for more than 24 hours I'd recommend taking them to an emergency veterinarian. They can examine both cat's mouths to look for problems and determine whether or not they may be dehydrated from not eating or drinking.

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