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My cat's lip is swollen, he's in pain and won't eat. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 24 lbs

Max has developed inflammation on his lower lip. He is unable to eat and looks in pain and is very lethargic

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Elizabeth

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on June 2nd, 2020

Max needs to be examined by the veterinarian today. Pets have to be in a lot of pain not to eat. There are a few different things that could cause a lesion like this including:
A tooth root abscess
https://www.petcoach.co/article/periodontal-disease-in-cats/

Chin acne that's infected
https://www.petcoach.co/article/feline-acne-signs-diagnosis-and-treatment-of-chin-blackheads-in-c/

Indolent Ulcer
https://www.petcoach.co/article/eosinophilic-disease-in-cats/

These conditions are all treated differently and an exam is the first step to figure out the cause. Max will also get medication which will help him to feel better and start eating and drinking. Remember that dehydration can set in quickly and will make Max feel even worse so it's important that he feels better quickly so that he will resume his normal drinking and eating.

I hope this helps and that Max feel better quickly.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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