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My cat has a bump on his mouth. Is it a dental problem or something else?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 3 lbs

My cat seems to have a small groth or infection on the side of his mouth. It dosen't seem to bother him much unless I am touching it directly.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 31st, 2020

I suspect this might be what is called a "resorptive lesion." There is a tiny tooth right there, and for some cats, they develop lesions where the body actually breaks down their teeth over time. They can be painful. For some cats, they don't show any signs. Have him evaluated by your vet; they may recommend a sedated dental exam and dental xrays to evaluate the tooth roots. If roots are left under the surface, its potentially a source of infection and pain, and surgical removal of the root may be considered.
Other possible causes of the bump would be inflammation, infection, (unlikely based on appearance), or an abnormal grownth/tumor.
Get him in to your vet when you can to have it checked out.
Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on December 31st, 2017
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I think this is likely due to dental disease as you smartly pointed out. Sometimes cats can develop tooth root abscesses that can look very similar at least based on this picture. Another possibility is a growth or an allergic reaction of some sort. I recommend that you have Leo evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to examine this more closely and determine what would be best to treat him with. Good luck and have a wonderful new year!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on July 5th, 2018
This lump should be checked as soon as possible as it could actually represent an abscess, possibly coming from the teeth. A picture of it would be essential to determine more specifically the underlying cause and give you more precise answers.

Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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