My cat has sudden throat swelling. Is it an emergency? What to do?

This could be an allergic reaction due to a bee or insect bite. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm this clinical suspicion and treat appropriately. 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. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

This is an emergency. Your kitty could have a severe allergic reaction, or a snake bite or serious injury (maybe because of a collision with a car). He needs to be seen by a veterinarian right away. Please take him to a PetEr right now as this sounds life-threatening.

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!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I'm sorry to hear Arpy is having facial swelling. Swelling like you are describing can be due to a variety of reasons, including infection (such as an abscess), a problem with a tooth, a growth, or an allergic reaction, among others. I would recommend having him evaluated by a veterinarian, as medications (such as an antibiotic or an anti-inflammatory) or even a dental procedure may be necessary to help resolve it. Good luck!

It is extremely concerning that Peanut has a swollen face and ragged breathing, and I would be very concerned she could be experiencing an allergic reaction. It could also be that Peanut was attacked by another cat if she's allowed outdoors, and that could be causing the swollen face, breathing difficulties, and vomiting. When a cat is having problems breathing, it is a medical emergency and she has to be seen by a vet now. 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.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is most likely an allergic reaction. He needs to see a veterinarian as soon as possible. This is typically treated with steroids and anti-histamine medications and they do well if treated promptly. Have a good night!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! You could try to keep it clean but aside from that, I am afraid that he will need veterinary care. Puncture or bite wounds can get infected rather quickly and result in a fever which may be why he is not eating. They can form abscesses that require local treatment and antibiotics. You could perhaps consider taking him to an emergency veterinarian who is open over the weekend. Good luck and have a great day!