Cats can undergo dental surgery for various reasons, including tooth extraction, gum disease treatment, or addressing oral infections. After surgery, it’s not uncommon to notice certain behaviors in your cat that may raise concern.
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One such behavior is pawing at the mouth. While this might seem alarming, there are many reasons why cats exhibit this behavior post-surgery, and not all are a cause for immediate worry. However, it’s essential for pet owners to monitor their cat’s recovery closely to ensure proper healing and to prevent any complications.
Cats tend to paw at their mouths after dental procedures because they are experiencing sensations that are new, uncomfortable, or painful. These sensations could range from mild irritation due to stitches or swelling, to more severe discomfort from an underlying complication. It’s crucial to differentiate between normal post-surgical behavior and signs that may warrant a trip back to the veterinarian.
In this article, we will explore the common causes of why your cat may be pawing at its mouth after dental surgery, how to identify concerning symptoms, ways to manage the behavior, and when it’s time to seek professional help.
2. Causes of Pawing at the Mouth After Dental Surgery
Cats may paw at their mouths for several reasons after undergoing dental surgery. Understanding the potential causes will help you better manage your cat’s recovery and ensure their comfort during the healing process.
Pain or Discomfort
One of the primary reasons your cat may paw at its mouth post-surgery is due to pain or discomfort. Even though your veterinarian likely prescribed pain medication, some cats may still experience residual discomfort. Surgical procedures, especially tooth extractions, can leave sore spots in the mouth, making the area tender. As a natural response, your cat may paw at its face, trying to alleviate the pain.
In the days following the surgery, it’s crucial to administer pain medications as prescribed by the vet. If the pawing seems excessive or is accompanied by other distressing behaviors, you may need to consult your veterinarian for additional pain relief options. While some pawing can be expected, persistent or aggressive pawing may indicate a more significant issue such as infection or improper healing.
Reaction to Stitches
Sutures or stitches in your cat’s mouth can cause irritation, leading to the pawing behavior. Cats may feel the presence of the stitches, which could be unfamiliar or bothersome to them. The body’s natural healing process may cause minor inflammation around the stitches, which could increase sensitivity in the area.
If the cat is persistently pawing, it might be a good idea to use an Elizabethan collar to prevent them from disrupting the stitches. It’s important to monitor the surgical site closely to ensure that the cat does not dislodge the stitches, as this could lead to complications such as reopening of the wound or infection.
Dental Nerve Sensitivity
After dental surgery, the nerves in your cat’s mouth may become sensitive as a result of the procedure. Dental work, especially in delicate areas like the gums or around nerves, can cause temporary nerve irritation or heightened sensitivity. This sensitivity may manifest as your cat pawing at their mouth, particularly if they experience a tingling or odd sensation.
The sensitivity usually subsides as the nerves heal, but in the meantime, your cat might seem confused or agitated by the unfamiliar feelings. Providing a quiet, stress-free environment will help your cat cope with these sensations more comfortably during the healing process.
Swelling or Inflammation
Swelling and inflammation are normal after dental surgery, and these can cause a cat to paw at its face. As the body works to heal, the gums may become swollen, especially in the first few days post-surgery. While this is a normal part of recovery, it can be uncomfortable for your cat, prompting them to paw at the affected area.
Cold compresses can be used to help reduce swelling, but you should consult your vet before applying any treatment to ensure it’s safe for your cat. If the swelling appears to be worsening instead of improving, or if there are other signs of infection like pus or a foul smell, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Side Effects of Anesthesia or Medications
Anesthesia and post-operative medications can have various side effects, one of which could be disorientation or discomfort. After the effects of anesthesia wear off, your cat might still be feeling its after-effects, which can cause them to act unusually, including pawing at their mouth. Pain medications may also cause slight behavioral changes, including restlessness or discomfort.
If the pawing is related to medication, it should subside once your cat adjusts to the medications or once they complete the course of treatment. Always follow your vet’s instructions when administering post-operative medications and report any side effects you notice.
3. Identifying Signs of Concern
It’s vital to recognize when your cat’s behavior is within the bounds of normal recovery and when it signals a potential problem.
Excessive Bleeding
While minor bleeding may occur in the hours following surgery, excessive or prolonged bleeding is a red flag. If you notice blood around the mouth or on your cat’s paws after surgery, especially if it persists or increases, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately.
Excessive bleeding may indicate that a stitch has come loose, the surgical wound has reopened, or there is another complication. Ensuring your cat remains calm and minimizing activity can help reduce the risk of excessive bleeding.
Persistent Swelling or Inflammation
Swelling and inflammation are common post-surgery, but if these symptoms persist beyond a few days or seem to worsen, it could be a sign of infection or another issue. Persistent swelling that doesn’t decrease or that becomes more severe can indicate a problem with the healing process.
In such cases, your vet may need to examine the surgical site and may prescribe antibiotics or other treatments to address the issue. It’s also essential to keep the surgical area clean and follow any aftercare instructions provided by your vet.
Behavioral Changes
Changes in your cat’s behavior, such as increased aggression, lethargy, or a lack of interest in their surroundings, can indicate that something is wrong. If your cat is showing signs of distress in addition to pawing at their mouth, it’s important to pay attention to their overall condition.
Behavioral changes can stem from pain, infection, or complications related to surgery. If you observe concerning changes in your cat’s behavior that last beyond the first couple of days of recovery, reach out to your veterinarian for guidance.
Refusal to Eat or Drink
Cats may have a reduced appetite after surgery due to discomfort, but if your cat is refusing to eat or drink entirely, this could be cause for concern. A lack of hydration and nutrition can delay recovery and exacerbate any existing issues.
If your cat is refusing to eat, try offering soft or wet foods that are easier to chew and swallow. If the refusal continues for more than 24 hours, contact your vet to ensure there isn’t a more serious underlying issue, such as infection or excessive pain.
Step 3: Q&A and Conclusion
Q1: How long will my cat paw at its mouth after dental surgery?
Typically, cats may paw at their mouths for a couple of days after dental surgery as they adjust to the changes and recover from the procedure. However, if this behavior persists beyond the first few days, or seems aggressive, it may require a vet’s attention.
Q2: Can I give my cat over-the-counter pain medications if they seem uncomfortable?
No, you should never give your cat over-the-counter medications unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Human medications can be harmful to cats, and your vet will provide the appropriate pain management plan for your pet.
Q3: Is it normal for my cat to refuse food after dental surgery?
Some cats may refuse food for a short period post-surgery due to discomfort. Offering softer foods and ensuring they are drinking water can help. If refusal persists, consult your veterinarian.
Conclusion
Cats pawing at their mouths after dental surgery is usually a sign of discomfort or confusion. While some pawing is normal, especially in the first few days, excessive or aggressive behavior can indicate a more serious issue. Always monitor your cat’s recovery, administer prescribed medications, and follow aftercare instructions from your veterinarian. If you notice any signs of infection, excessive bleeding, or other concerning symptoms, contact your vet promptly to ensure your cat’s speedy recovery.
