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My cat's lip is swollen and he's sneezing. Is it allergies? Can I use Benadryl?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 2 months old | 8 lbs

Hey my cat has a swollen lip on the left side of his face. It has happened before and went away when he was a kitten. We used coconut oil on it like we read online and that seemed to help. But it won't go away this time he sneezes a lot I was wondering if he might have an allergy and if I can use benadryl? He's an indoor and outdoor cat. So he is always around other strays people have left. Could have got something from them?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on August 5th, 2020

It would be unusual for allergies to only affect one side (although cats are prone to 'eosinophilic plaques from hypersensitivities) and the cobblestone appearance of the inside of the lip is a little concerning. I recommend a full physical exam by your vet - they may wish to sedate him to take samples of the area to rule out sinister causes and to guide the most appropriate treatment

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