As a pet owner, it’s common to notice changes in your cat’s behaviour or appearance and wonder if something is wrong, writes Dr Rose Hasegawa, medical director Te Are Manu Vet Clinic.

This was the case for Fluffy, a four-year-old cat who developed a concerning lump on his face. His owner initially thought the lump might be a bee sting, something that could simply resolve itself. However, when the swelling didn’t go away after a day, they wisely decided to call Te Are Manu Vet Clinic and scheduled an appointment for further evaluation.

The initial visit and examination

Upon arrival at the clinic, Fluffy was seen by a veterinarian who performed a thorough examination. The vet noticed that the swelling appeared to be caused by an infection, which is not uncommon in cats. Common causes of facial swelling in cats include cat fight wounds, grass seeds and other foreign bodies that can cause abscesses. The veterinarian recommended admitting Fluffy to the hospital for sedation to conduct a more detailed examination of the swelling and to ensure no underlying issues were missed.

Discovery of the root cause

Once Fluffy was sedated, the vet discovered something unexpected: Fluffy had numerous grass seeds lodged deep in his mouth. These seeds were causing him significant pain and contributing to dental disease. The abscess on his face was not the result of a simple insect sting, as originally suspected, but was a more serious complication caused by the foreign bodies embedded in his mouth. The abscess had become so severe that it had spread into his cheek, leading to the swelling that was visible on his face.

The veterinarian quickly took action, draining and flushing the abscess to remove the infection. Fluffy was also administered an antibiotic injection and pain relief to help manage the discomfort and begin the healing process. The procedure went smoothly, and once Fluffy had regained enough consciousness, he was discharged, and his owner was fully briefed on the treatment that had been administered.

The importance of veterinary visits

Fluffy’s case highlights an important lesson for all pet owners: when something seems wrong with your pet, it’s essential to seek professional veterinary care. While it’s easy to assume that a lump might be a minor issue, such as a bee sting, there could be more complex causes behind the symptoms that are difficult to detect without a proper examination. In Fluffy’s case, the issue wasn’t as straightforward as it appeared, and it wasn’t until the vet performed a thorough check-up, including sedation, that the real problem was discovered.

Abscesses caused by foreign bodies like grass seeds can be particularly tricky, as they might not show obvious signs until the infection becomes severe. Early detection and treatment are crucial to avoid more serious health complications and ensure your pet’s comfort and well-being.

This case reinforces why it’s important to trust your instincts as a pet owner and seek veterinary care when you notice something unusual. Even if you think the issue is minor, it’s always better to be safe and have a professional look at your pet. In many cases, a thorough exam may reveal underlying issues that aren’t immediately apparent, as was the case with Fluffy. By doing so, you not only provide your pet with the best care possible but also avoid complications down the road.