What to Do When Your Cat Won’t Stop Crying, Drooling, and Holding Its Mouth Open: A Guide for Snowed-in Pet Owners

Discover the steps you can take to help your beloved cat when it experiences persistent crying, drooling, and mouth pain due to dental or gum issues. Use this guide to address the immediate needs of your pet and ensure they get the necessary care during a snowed-in weekend.

Identifying the Problem and Its Causes

If you're snowed in and can't get to the vet, don't panic. Your timely intervention can make a significant difference in your cat's health. The symptoms of crying, drooling, and holding the mouth open are indicative of underlying issues such as dental problems, tooth sensitivity, or gum infections. Common signs of these issues include:

Bad breath (halitosis) Persistent drooling Refusing to eat Increasingly open mouth

Immediate Care Steps

Here are the steps you can take to alleviate your cat's discomfort and ensure their well-being:

Evaluate the Diet

Before rushing to conclusions, consider the diet your cat has been eating:

Teething kittens: If your cat is young, it might be experiencing teething, which can cause drooling and discomfort. Ensure it has soft food to chew on. Hard foods: Avoid giving your cat hard foods, as they can be difficult to chew and potentially cause further issues. Opt for moist food that is easier to digest. Water: Ensure your cat has plenty of water, but avoid giving them cow's milk, as it can cause gastrointestinal issues.

Observe and Treat Symptoms

While you can't physically examine your cat's mouth, you can observe the following points:

Crying and holding the mouth open can be signs of dental problems or infections. Tooth or gum abscesses, for example, can cause significant pain and discomfort. If your cat is unable to eat, it's particularly concerning as cats should not go without food for more than 24 to 36 hours. Continuing to eat is crucial for their health.

Contact Your Vet

Reach out to your veterinarian as soon as possible to discuss your situation and get guidance. They may suggest temporary measures to ease your cat's discomfort, such as:

Medications to reduce pain and inflammation Chewable options or soothing gels Dietary changes and recommendations for safer feeding

Seek Emergency Help

In some cases, the problem might be severe enough to require emergency veterinary care. If your cat is unable to eat or its symptoms worsen, take steps to make it to the vet as soon as possible.

Additional Tips and Resources

Here are some additional tips and resources to help you manage your cat's condition:

Check for Foreign Objects

Inspect your cat's mouth to see if you can spot any foreign objects, such as sewing needles or other objects that might be stuck in the mouth. If you can safely remove them, do so and then proceed to seek professional veterinary care.

Virtual Consultations

Many veterinary practices are offering phone or online consultations. These can provide immediate guidance and support to help you manage your cat's condition until you can get an in-person appointment.

Conclusion

When your cat shows signs of dental distress, it's essential to take prompt action. From adjusting their diet to contacting your veterinarian for guidance, these steps can help alleviate your cat's discomfort and ensure their health. Remember, early intervention can make a significant difference in your cat's recovery.