Skin conditions, wounds, allergies and tumors are all potential causes for your cat's lip to appear swollen. A swollen lip can be a source of discomfort for your cat, and the condition can result in infection. Having your cat examined by a veterinarian will provide a diagnosis and enable him to prescribe a course of treatment that will bring relief for your feline friend.
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Other Pets
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If your cat shares your home with other pets, it is possible that she sustained an injury during a scuffle. Injuries can result from scratches, bites or from bumping her head during the tussle. If your pets have a habit of regularly engaging in rough play or fighting, consider keeping them separated when no one is home to supervise their interaction. Scratches and bite wounds can become infected quickly, so seek veterinary attention if you notice and lacerations on your cat.
Allergies
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It is not uncommon for cats to suffer from allergies. Allergens that can affect your cat are the same allergens that can affect you or your family, including pollen, various molds or foods. Food allergies are a potential cause for your cat's swollen lower lip. Slowly transitioning your cat to a holistic food that uses higher quality ingredients or to a prescribed limited ingredient diet will bring your cat relief and reduce the swelling if the condition is caused by a food allergy.
Acne
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Feline acne is a common affliction in cats, and severe cases can result in swelling on the lower lip. Feline acne typically develops on a cat's chin, and the acne can present as white heads, black heads or small, red bumps that may or may not be filled with pus. Once your veterinarian makes a diagnosis of feline acne, the condition can be managed with prescribed medications.
Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex
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Eosinophilic granuloma complex presents in three different forms: granuloma, plaque and ulcers. Eosinophilic granuloma directly results in a swollen lower lip or a swollen chin. However, the granuloma can also occur on the thighs, other areas of the face or even the tongue.
The plaque form occurs on various parts of the body, including the neck area. Excessive scratching of an irritated spot on the neck can result swelling of the lower lip and face.
The ulcer form, also known as an indolent ulcer or a rodent ulcer, typically occurs on the upper lip, but the lower lip can also be affected. Indolent ulcers can be cancerous and cause mild to severe swelling. As the ulcer progresses, the area becomes painful. Your cat will be reluctant to eat, resulting in weight loss.
All three forms can occur individually for a variety of reasons, such as allergies or cancer. It is also not uncommon for all three forms to be simultaneously present on the cat. If you see or feel lesions or lumps on your cat̵7;s face or in his mouth, schedule an appointment with her veterinarian for an evaluation. Your veterinarian will examine your cat and, if necessary, perform diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the condition in order to provide you and your cat with the most effective treatment plan.
Cancer
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In rare cases, a swollen lip may be indicative of cancer in or around the oral cavity. Tumors in the mouth or on the lower lip can present with swelling. Additional symptoms of oral cancer in cats include lumps in and around the mouth as well as bleeding, reluctance to eat, weight loss, bad breath or mild to excessive drooling.
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