Signs your cat is in mouth pain

It can be tricky to tell if your cat has a sore mouth, partly because they’ll often keep eating even when they’re uncomfortable. That’s why it’s really important to know the common signs that indicate mouth pain.

So, what are the common signs of a cat experiencing mouth pain? One of the most common is a change in how they eat dry food. Your cat might suddenly drop kibble, bob their head while eating, or even stop chewing altogether. They'll usually find soft food much easier to eat. Other signs include drooling more than usual, and sometimes a foul odour coming from their mouth.

While a cat in mouth pain usually won’t stop eating completely, a sudden refusal to eat could signal other issues. However, cats have been known to stop eating purely due to mouth pain. If your cat stops eating, it’s important to see a vet quickly, as cats are sensitive to starvation and can become unwell rapidly if they don’t eat.

What causes mouth pain?Several conditions can cause mouth pain in cats, such as tooth resorption, periodontitis, or gingivitis. These are all relatively common, and it's important to seek professional advice to find out what's causing your cat pain!