Normal Causes of Puffy Cheeks in Female Cats
It’s common for female cats to develop puffy or swollen cheeks due to normal biological causes related to reproduction and seasonal changes.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, female cats will often develop fuller, rounder facial features as their bodies prepare for nursing kittens. The extra fat deposits in the cheeks provide an energy reserve that can be used during nursing. According to veterinarians, moderate facial swelling is normal during feline pregnancy and not a cause for concern [1].
Nursing Kittens
Nursing mother cats will also have swollen and enlarged mammary glands as they produce milk for their kittens. This can contribute to an overall fuller facial appearance. The swollen cheeks and mammary glands will gradually recede after the kittens are weaned [2].
Seasonal Weight Gain
Some female cats may develop slightly chubbier facial features as they put on extra weight during the winter months when they are less active. This seasonal weight gain can gradually diminish as they become more active in the spring and summer.
Pregnancy
Cats are pregnant for about 9 weeks total (Cat Pregnancy Stages: A Week-by-Week Guide). The pregnancy can be divided into stages, with weight gain and changes happening mainly in the last 2-3 weeks. According to sources, some swelling and puffiness in the cheeks is normal as the kittens start to grow rapidly near the end of the pregnancy (Cat Pregnancy Timeline: Signs & Stages – Dutch). The puffiness is caused by the developing kittens taking up more room in the abdomen, which can put pressure on the diaphragm and lungs. This is part of the normal physical changes that occur during feline pregnancy.
Nursing Kittens
It’s common for mother cats to develop puffy cheeks when nursing kittens. The extra fluid retention in the cheeks is normal and helps the mother cat produce milk for her kittens. As described by PetMD, “the mammary glands swell with milk, and this causes residual facial swelling.”
The swelling is due to increased blood flow and fluid buildup in the salivary glands. According to Daily Paws, “The salivary glands become engorged to compensate for fluid loss during nursing.” Puffy cheeks allow cats to store more milk to feed their young.
This facial swelling is temporary and subsides after the kittens are weaned, which usually occurs around 8-12 weeks after birth. The mother cat’s body will reabsorb the excess fluid and the puffiness in her cheeks will go away on its own.
Seasonal Weight Gain
It’s common for cats to gain some extra weight in the winter months when they tend to be less active. According to experts, the colder weather and shorter daylight hours lead many cats to exercise less and relax more, which can result in weight gain (source). Additionally, seasonal hormonal changes can increase appetite. The combination of reduced activity and increased eating causes some cats to develop fuller facial features and puffy cheeks from the extra fat deposits (source). This seasonal fluctuation is normal, but pet owners should monitor their cat’s weight and talk to their vet if significant weight gain persists year-round.
Medical Causes of Puffy Cheeks in Cats
There are several medical conditions that can cause puffy cheeks in cats. Some of the most common include:
Dental Issues
Dental disease like gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth abscesses often lead to swelling in a cat’s face and cheeks. Dental infections cause inflammation and fluid buildup under the skin. Treatment involves professional dental cleaning and tooth extraction if needed. Preventive dental care at home like brushing can help avoid these issues (Source 1).
Abscesses
Abscesses under the skin resulting from cat bite wounds are a common cause of puffy cheeks. The infection causes a pocket of pus under the skin leading to swelling. Abscesses require antibiotic treatment and sometimes surgical drainage. Keeping cats indoors prevents fighting and bite abscesses (Source 2).
Tumors
Both benign and malignant tumors in the mouth, jaw or face can lead to facial swelling in cats. Oral cancer is unfortunately common in cats. Biopsies are needed for accurate diagnosis. Treatment depends on the type of tumor but may include surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.
Dental Issues
One common dental issue that can lead to puffy cheeks in cats is dental disease such as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on a cat’s teeth which leads to inflammation and infection of the gums and tooth roots. This can progress into painful tooth root abscesses if left untreated.
A tooth abscess occurs when an infection develops in the root of a tooth. The pus in the abscess puts pressure on the tooth and jaw leading to significant pain and swelling of the cheeks or jaw. Common symptoms of a tooth abscess include puffy or swollen cheeks, drooling, foul breath, difficulty eating, and behavioral changes due to pain and discomfort.
Treatment of a tooth abscess usually involves antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian to control the infection. The affected tooth will likely need to be extracted to fully resolve the abscess and prevent recurrence. Some cats may also need deep dental cleaning and plaque removal under anesthesia to treat underlying periodontal disease. Home care such as rinsing with antiseptic mouthwash may provide temporary relief, but dental extractions and professional cleaning are often ultimately needed.
Abscesses
Abscesses in cats are typically caused by bites, scratches, or a foreign object puncturing the skin and introducing bacteria. This leads to an infection that causes a pocket of pus to form under the skin or tissue of the cat 1. Abscesses often look like a lump or swollen area on the cat’s body. They are very painful and can cause lethargy, loss of appetite, and fever.
Treatment for an abscess requires antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian to fight the infection. The abscess may also need to be drained by lancing it open to release the pus. Drainage allows the wound to start healing. Abscesses should be treated quickly before the infection spreads further into the body. Left untreated, they can rupture internally and make the cat extremely ill 2.
Tumors
Lymphoma is the most common malignant tumor that can cause puffy cheeks in cats (source). Lymphoma typically affects lymph nodes or lymphoid tissue, and a lymph node swelling in the face/cheeks is a common symptom. Lymphoma can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors are non-cancerous while malignant tumors are cancerous and can spread to other parts of the body. If a tumor is suspected, a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. During a biopsy, a small tissue sample is taken and analyzed by a pathologist. Determining if the tumor is benign or malignant is key, as malignant lymphoma requires aggressive treatment like chemotherapy.
When to See the Vet
Puffy cheeks in cats are often harmless, but in some cases may signal an underlying health issue needing veterinary attention. You should contact your veterinarian promptly in these situations:
Sudden onset of swelling
If your cat’s cheeks become very puffy very quickly, it could indicate a rapidly developing problem like an allergic reaction, insect bite, or abscess. Sudden swelling warrants an urgent vet visit to determine the cause and initiate treatment.
Persistent swelling
Cheek puffiness lasting more than a few days without improvement often points to an issue like a tumor or infection. Chronic swelling should be evaluated by your vet even if your cat seems otherwise normal.
Other symptoms present
Swelling paired with lethargy, appetite changes, drooling, tooth issues, or other problems raises red flags. Multiple symptoms suggest something more serious than seasonal weight gain or pregnancy. Seek prompt veterinary attention if your cat’s puffy cheeks are accompanied by any other signs of illness.
Summary
In summary, some common normal causes for puffy cheeks in female cats include pregnancy, nursing kittens, and seasonal weight gain. The extra fat stores in the cheeks provide nourishment for developing kittens. However, puffy cheeks may also indicate certain medical conditions like dental disease, abscesses, or tumors. Therefore, if your female cat has puffy cheeks without a clear explanation like pregnancy or nursing, it’s best to schedule a veterinary exam for proper diagnosis and treatment. Some conditions like abscesses or tumors require medication or surgery, so it’s important not to ignore puffy cheeks in female cats.
In closing, monitor your female cat’s cheeks and keep an eye out for any lumps, pain, or change in appetite. Seek veterinary care if the puffiness persists or worsens without explanation. With appropriate treatment guided by your vet, your cat’s puffy cheeks should resolve.