Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my cat's face swollen and he's sleeping all the time?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 8 months old | 5 lbs

My cat has a swollen cheek since two days. His left cheek has a visible bulge. Though he is eating and chewing normally he has been only sleeping since two days. What could be the problem?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on June 18th, 2018

Poor Chimpu! He may have an infected tooth, an abscess due to some kind of wound on his face, or even some type of tumor. I would recommend taking him to the vet to have this checked. It sounds like he will probably need antibiotics at the very least, and may also need more advanced treatment such as a tooth extraction or biopsy of the swollen tissue depending on what is found.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 30th, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Horatio. He will need to see his veterinarian. He could have a bad tooth that is infected and causing the swelling along the cheek. In this case, he will need to go under anesthesia to have his mouth fully evaluated, teeth cleaned and the bad one extracted. If he is allowed outside, could have had a fight with another cat. This could have resulted in wounds that are now infected. Either way, he will require care. You can try to apply a warm compress to the swollen area in the meantime if he will allow you to do so. I hope this information helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored