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Why are my cat's lips red, but he's eating and playing normally?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 1 year and 2 months old

My cat has some redness around his lips, but he’s acting normal. He’s eating, drinking, and playing as usual. Theres no swelling that I can see. Does anyone know what might be going on here? I’d really appreciate any help.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on February 23rd, 2023

I’m glad to hear the Binx is doing well aside from this redness. I agree - I don’t see any evidence of swelling or discrete lesions. That said, this type of redness is more likely either irritation from food and water bowls, or some underlying allergies, particularly given his young age. Plastic and ceramic bowls are fairly porous and can harbor bacteria. If you aren’t already doing so, try using stainless steel or glass bowls, taking care to wash them daily. If the redness persists, your next option is to take Binx to his vet for an exam. Your vet may need to prescribe some medication to help get this redness under control. Given the location, I wouldn’t recommend trying any topical medication, as I wouldn’t want Binx to ingest any of it. I hope that everything goes well!

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