What's causing my cat's swollen face, red spot, and hair loss?

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 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.

Poor Evie! That does looks quite sore and painful. It's hard to say what might have originally started this problem (possibly a puncture wound, or an insect bite or sting), but it appears to be very infected and inflamed now. This is definitely something that she should see a vet for, since she will need antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication to treat the infection and make her more comfortable. I would recommend taking her today, if at all possible - especially since the problem seems to be rapidly getting worse.

Poor cat! If the wound is growing in size, it's time to go to your vet. Problems such as allergies to parasite bites, fungal infections such as ringworm, infections of the skin, abscesses/sores etc can all be potential causes which is why a vet visit is needed to determine the cause, provide treatment such as pain meds and antibiotics, etc. Until you can get to your vet, keeping the area clean and dry may help as well as preventing your cat from licking, but if he is acting ill and hiding away he is likely already painful or worsening so needs care.

This presentation could be due to a trauma or localised spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria but fungal infection is possible). A check up, appropriate disinfection and eventually antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Disinfection can eventually be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid licking (if any). 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.

Yes a spider bite can cause a swelling. the swelling does not look very extensive so likely was not caused by one of the "nasty" spiders such as a black widow or a brown recluse. If your kitty, however, starts getting abdominal pain (rigid belly) or the swelling starts to change color, then a visit at the emergency room is the next step. If Maisey eats, drinks, lets you touch the swelling and otherwise does not act ill, then I think you have nothing to worry about and the swelling should go away within a day or so.

Marshy likely either has an infection or an autoimmune condition called a 'rodent ulcer.' Cancer could look like this but is less likely. I would recommend to take her in for an exam. The doctor will prescribe medication based on the exam and history. I hope this helps with your baby!