I’m really worried about my cat, Oliver. Over the last couple of days, he’s been shaking his head a bit and drooling, which isn't like him at all. Normally, he’s such a chill little dude and only drools a tiny bit when he's super relaxed and purring in my lap. But now, he’s doing it constantly and it just doesn’t feel right. He seems more irritable too, and I caught him scratching at his ears quite a bit. I’ve checked for ear mites and couldn’t see anything obvious, but I’m no expert. I'm starting to panic a little—has anyone experienced anything similar with their cat? Should I be rushing him to the vet, or is there something specific I could check or do first? Any advice would be hugely appreciated.
Thanks for reaching out with your concern about your cat. Head shaking and drooling can be unsettling to see, but let's explore what might be happening.
Your cat might have something irritating his mouth or ears. It could be a foreign object, like a piece of grass or a small toy, stuck in his mouth. Dental issues, such as a sore tooth or gum infection, might also cause drooling. Head shaking often points to ear problems—possibly an infection or mites. If your cat has itchy ears, it may also exhibit redness or a funky smell.
At home, try to gently inspect your cat’s mouth and ears, if he'll let you, for obvious signs of discomfort or anything out of place. Ensure his environment is safe from small objects that could be accidentally ingested.
Keep an eye out for any changes or worsening signs. If you notice your cat is drooling excessively, seems in pain, stops eating, or has trouble breathing, these could be indicators of a more serious issue that requires immediate veterinary attention.
For a thorough evaluation and peace of mind, I’d recommend setting up a video consult with a vet on Dial A Vet. This way, a professional can guide you on the best steps to ensure your furry friend's health and happiness.
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