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Why is my cat's upper lip swollen? Should I worry if she's normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 9 months and 25 days old | 10 lbs

We noticed swelling/inflammation in the upper lip of our cat yesterday and weren’t sure whether this is something we should be concerned over. She’s a 1 year old indoors only cat. To our knowledge there was no food left out she could have eaten, there was no change in diet. The only environmental change was that we opened a few windows (with screens) to let some fresh air into the house. The cat is acting normally with no change to her behavIor. Thank you for your time!

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on May 26th, 2019

The swelling on Autumn’s lip could be due to a few conditions. It’s possible it is related to an infection in the adjacent teeth. It could also be a viral infection. Or there may be some injury to the inside of the lip. If the swelling does not go down within 24 hours or if it seems painful, I recommend to have her examined by the veterinarian. You may try to gently apply a cool, not cold, compress to the area twice a day for five minutes if she will allow you. Best of luck.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 28th, 2017

    Maisey is a cutie and her lower lip is quite inflamed! The swelling could be due to underlying allergies, dental disease, viral conditions, etc. A vet should evaluate her lip, but since she's eating and acting normally without any other signs of facial swelling, you should not need to rush her to the vet immediately. If anything changes with her appetite, energy level, or worsened swelling of her entire face, Maisey should be examined by a vet more urgently. I hope that all goes well!

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