I'm feeling pretty worried and could really use some advice. My 5-month-old kitten, Luna, has been acting a bit off today. She was eating just fine until this morning when I noticed she started batting at her mouth and stopped eating her breakfast halfway through. I took a closer look and thought I saw a tiny white speck or something stuck in her gum near her back teeth, but it’s hard to get a clear view because she squirms so much. She's also been drooling a bit more than usual. I’m concerned because she’s usually such an energetic ball of fluff and now she seems a bit subdued. Has anyone else experienced something similar with their cats? I’m not sure if I should try to get in there myself or head straight to the vet. Any advice or similar experiences would be so helpful right now!
Hello! It sounds like your kitten might be experiencing some discomfort in her mouth. This can be due to several issues, such as getting a foreign object stuck between her teeth, a piece of food lodged in her gums, or teething troubles—especially common since kittens go through various stages of teething.
First, try gently checking her mouth if she’s comfortable with it. Look for any obvious objects or redness and swelling of the gums. If you see a foreign object and it looks easy to remove without causing more distress, you might try gently dislodging it with a soft, wet cloth. However, don't force anything, as it could cause injury or worsen the situation.
Keep an eye out for signs such as increased drooling, pawing at the mouth, or avoiding food. These can suggest pain or a more serious issue, like a dental infection. If her breath smells particularly bad, it's another clue that something might be brewing below the surface.
Providing your kitten with safe, chewable toys can help ease teething discomfort. Additionally, offering a small amount of cool water can soothe irritation.
If she remains uncomfortable or you see no improvement, it would be wise to have a video consult with us here at Dial A Vet. We can help assess what the next steps could be for your furry friend’s comfort and health.
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