Cat's jaw swollen and painful after dental care. What should I do?

A sudden swelling under the jaw could be an abscess. Typically these need to be seen by a vet; as they often need to be lanced/drained to get the pus and infection out; then started on antibiotics. Pain medication may be given as well. If he isn't eating, if he's acting lethargic or otherwise not feeling well (vomiting, diarrhea, any change in breathing) seek emergency care. If your vet's office is closed, they likely have a message with who to call or where to seek after hours care in the case of an emergency. If he's still eating and acting ok, you can call and make an appointment at the first possible time. I hope that helps you! Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Facial swelling can be caused by an allergic reaction to something such as an insect sting or spider bite, an abscess from an injury, or even an abscessed tooth (unlikely in such a young cat). I would encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. Depending on what the diagnosis is will determine what medications are recommended. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

It is difficult to tell from the pictures, but it looks like the swelling is involving the lower lip. Anytime there is a significant change, I always think it's worth having your veterinarian examine it just to make sure it doesn't need treatment before getting worse. Your vet will need to evaluate Tracy's mouth to check for dental problems and make sure they don't suspect eosinophilic granuloma complex (https://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=656). If it is getting worse, I would certainly have it evaluated as soon as possible. Otherwise, I would schedule an appointment with your veterinarian at your earliest convenience just to be safe. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and that Tracy is fine. Thanks for using PetCoach.

It is quite difficult to appreciate where the swelling is based on these images. I sort of think I can see what you are talking about in the third image. One of the most common reasons for swelling on the face in cats is when something is wrong with the teeth. Cats are known for getting abscesses in the roots of their teeth. When this happens, the area outside of the mouth on the face and around can get swollen (and eventually become painful). Other causes of swelling around the face and throat would be enlargement of the lymph nodes, allergic reactions, or some sort of mass. I would bring Genevieve to a veterinarian to have the area assessed in order to get to the bottom of things.

It's possible that it could be an allergy or infection. Additional causes could be an underlying viral illness that is coming back in times of stress or at regular intervals. Tooth abscesses may also cause pain in the mouth and jaw, as well as swelling. It would be best to have some more tests done by your vet next time it occurs, such as a dental X-ray, bloodwork, or sample of the affected area taken for testing. This may help you and your vet figure out what the underlying cause is.

It is probably a good thing that that the tooth fell out as there was likely infection that loosened it and that was painful. If the swelling goes back and she has no pain, then you do not need to take her to a vet, However, check the other teeth as well. If there is tartar, or if the gums are red, you should have her mouth checked by the vet as she may need a dental cleaning.

It could be Jade has a dental problem such as a tooth root abscess causing this lump . You need to take her into a vet right away. Please take her into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website.