Licking Lips?

misty8723

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I've noticed Austin licking his lips like cats do after they've eaten something, but I don't think he ate anything. Could he have a tooth problem? Should I take him to the vet? He's not doing it constantly, but I've seen him doing it twice today at different times.
 

LTS3

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It could be nothing at all or may indicate a dental issue or nausea. I'd keep an eye on it for now. Some cats may just lick their lips out of boredom. If the licking keeps up or increases, call the vet for an appointment.
 

FeebysOwner

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Licking lips can also be a sign of nausea. Or, perhaps, trying to keep from throwing up a hairball. Some cats resist throwing up if they can, or they partially throw up in their mouth and then swallow it (sorry, sounds gross, but true). See if you can determine any more specifics about when he is doing it.

Is Austin older, is that why you are more worried about it or thinking it could be dental related?
 
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misty8723

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Austin is young, maybe 1.5 years. Swanie had a lot of dental issues and that was one thing, licking lips, but I forgot about potential nausea. I just worry, he seems just fine and I haven't seen him do it again since I posted (except a few minutes ago after he ate). I'll try to keep my eye on him and not over react.
 

1 bruce 1

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FYI, I think he's okay. Haven't seen him doing it again.
If he does, maybe try giving him a small amount of food to see if it stops or not. A few of ours will do this when their stomachs are running on empty and it stops if they grab a bite or two.
 
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misty8723

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If he does, maybe try giving him a small amount of food to see if it stops or not. A few of ours will do this when their stomachs are running on empty and it stops if they grab a bite or two.
I will remember that, thanks.
 
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misty8723

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Thanks for the update! Glad you thought of us to let us know - and super glad it doesn't look to be an ongoing problem. :crossfingers::crossfingers::crossfingers::crossfingers:
I watched him last evening, this morning, and this evening and so far he is not doing it. Plus he is acting like his silly self, eating, playing, etc. So maybe it was just a temporary hairball issue.
 
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