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Is the red, rough hole under my cat's mouth an abscess or scar?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Chartreux | Female | spayed | 11 years and 10 months old | 20 lbs

There's a hole under my cats mouth. I can't really get a good look at it cause she runs away but its red and feels like dried blood. I got a picture (I could send it too). It looks like an abscess AFTER doing research but it doesn't look or feel like there's pus or liquid, it's rough. My stepfather suggests it's just a scar and we should leave it but I want to be certain.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2016

If there is a hole, you are correct it could be an abscess that has ruptured, but it could also be due to trauma. Unfortunately, you can't send pictures in the forum, but you can request a consult with an expert online where you can send the picture. I would recommend having Kisa examined by a vet. If she did have an abscess, she would benefit from some antibiotics.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 31st, 2017

    Poor girl. I don't know what these holes look like, but it sounds like she may have an abscess that has ruptured. She needs to be seen by your vet to have this treated for with a short course of antibiotics (usually we prescribe convenia for cats b/c it is an injectable that we can give without requiring you to pill the cat daily). Feel free to repost with a picture of the area in question if you wish. However, it is likely this is an abscess. You can wipe the area with sterile saline or a clean wet cloth until she can be seen. Best wishes getting Kitty Widdy back to her normal self. Take care.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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