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Why is my cat's bottom lip swollen and Benadryl isn't working?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 1 year and 2 months old | 14 lbs

My cats bottom lip is swollen. Its happened before. He wad allergic to plastic. Is this the same? Its been about a week. And i tried liquid Benadryl.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on September 28th, 2018

Benadryl will not help, it's probably allergy related indeed, it's a common problem in cats (may be autoimmune related as well), as long as it does not bother him there is usually no reason to treat it, if it gets worse or affects his appetite you will need to take him to the vet for a steroid injection.

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on February 16th, 2017
I would have Lexi seen by a vet immediately if the Benadryl isn't working. The concern with facial swelling is that it could prevent her from breathing, leading to respiratory distress. She may need a stronger drug such as a steroid to stop the reaction. I would have her seen by an ER vet or find a vet on call to see her ASAP.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on January 17th, 2017
Unfortunately, by law it is illegal for the experts at Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to recommend to use any drug, including OTC drugs, without seeing the animal in person first. That's because doing so requires a veterinary client patient relationship which cannot be achieved via an internet forum. In addition, the experts cannot say for certain if a specific drug is safe for your cat, or the correct drug for treatment. Based on that, I would say your best option is to take Tiger into the vet now for an exam. This swelling could be due to allergies, but it could also be due to an infection, which Benadryl won't treat. The vet can diagnose what is causing the swelling, and can prescribe treatment for him.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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