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Why is my cat making weird chewing motions with an empty mouth?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 1 month old | 7.5 lbs

My cat Nugget is doing this weird thing with his mouth as if hes trying to eat a big scoop of peanut butter but theres nothing in his mouth. Hes been doing it for about 4 days now.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 14th, 2019

This is abnormal behavior. It sounds like there could be something going on inside his mouth like an abscessed tooth, an exposed nerve root or something of that nature. I suggest you videotape the behavior and then get him to the vet for an examination. Showing the vet the video would be very helpful in case he’s not doing the behavior during the exam.

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