My pet has swelling under tongue and can't eat. Is this an emergency?

Oh wow that is very swollen. This could be due to a dental problem or it could be an allergic reaction. Without seeing her in person, I can't say for certain what is causing it. I can say it's swollen enough to need an immediate vet visit. I strongly urge you to take her into a vet right away to get this diagnosed and treated. Best of luck.

My concern would be that if he is having a hard time swallowing then it could progress to having a hard time breathing. Should this happen while you are sleeping it could be catastrophic. I would encourage you to have him evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

Poor kitty! I'm sorry to hear that you're having this problem. Unfortunately, I can't really tell what's going on in this photo, except that his mouth appears to be swollen and there is something (maybe his tongue?) protruding from his mouth or chin. I would definitely say that he needs to see a veterinarian, but can't even hazard a guess as to what might be wrong or what kind of treatment would be needed without an exam and a more detailed history. I would recommend having him seen by a veterinarian today if at all possible. Once the initial exam has been done, he/she should be able to give you a better idea of what might be wrong and what kind of treatment is needed, including costs.

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. Oh my, that is quite swollen, and I'd be concerned that this swelling could increase and affect her breathing. This is a medical emergency and cannot be treated at home. Please take her into a vet immediately to get this treated. Best of luck.

Oh no that is awful! The cat will have to be sedated to remove the tongue and the tongue may need stitches to close the hole. The tongue is an amazing organ and actually heals quite quickly, so I expect it would be a great prognosis. This will be extremely painful to the cat and it's serious he can't eat or drink. This is a medical emergency and he has to see a vet now. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Best of luck.

There are many possibilities, an absess, blocked salivary gland, insect bite or injury would be the most common causes for rapid swelling. The reduced appetite is a concern, this may be due to discomfort, narrowing of the throat or fever. If this persist or increases overnight he should be checked by your vet, monitor for any changes to his breathing which would require an emergency visit

A sudden swelling under the jaw could be an abscess. Typically these need to be seen by a vet; as they often need to be lanced/drained to get the pus and infection out; then started on antibiotics. Pain medication may be given as well. If he isn't eating, if he's acting lethargic or otherwise not feeling well (vomiting, diarrhea, any change in breathing) seek emergency care. If your vet's office is closed, they likely have a message with who to call or where to seek after hours care in the case of an emergency. If he's still eating and acting ok, you can call and make an appointment at the first possible time. I hope that helps you! Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!