Symptom
Facial or under-eye swelling in a dog or cat
One-sided facial or under-eye swelling often points to a dental infection — seek care promptly. Full analysis in the swelling article below.
Most common possible causes
- —Root abscess
- —Root remnant
- —Trauma
- —Neoplasia
When not to postpone an exam
- ✓Any facial or under-eye swelling
- ✓Drooling
- ✓Lethargy or refusal to eat
Urgent help needed
- ✓Rapidly increasing swelling
- ✓Difficulty breathing
- ✓A sudden deterioration in general condition
- ✓Loss of consciousness
What not to do at home
- —Do not lance the swelling
- —Do not delay the visit
- —Do not rely on antibiotics alone without treating the tooth
What diagnostics may be needed
- ✓Clinical examination
- ✓Dental radiography
- ✓COHAT
The source of infection is often under the gums or in the bone.
Unfamiliar term in the diagnosis?If the report mentions TR, FCGS, pulpitis or a periodontal stage, the glossary explains each term briefly.GlossaryHow treatment may proceed
- ✓Extraction of the affected tooth/root
- ✓Soft-tissue care
- ✓Antibacterial therapy when indicated
Related services
Related clinical case
Dental disease in a cat: a broken canine tooth of 3+ years' standing
View the broken canine tooth case →Similar symptoms
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