My 1 year old cat has a jaw that pops open quite frequently whenever I scratch it. Should I be concerned?
She has no other health issues and eats with no problems, I'm concerned her jaw may be 'weak' and lead to health problems later in life. I'm curious what might cause this?
Asked by
Erin
2 Answers
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Answered by
Dr Audrey Harvey BVSc (Hons), Veterinarian
Hi Erin, that’s an interesting question and I’ve been trying to picture what you mean, and work out what may be causing it.
It sounds like there may be a problem with the temporomandibular joint which is where the back of the lower jaw meets the skull. Sometimes this joint can subluxate; this means it dislocates and pops back into position. This condition is usually due to trauma so it doesn’t sound like this would be the case with your girl. There is another possibility which is temporomandibular joint dysplasia. This is a congenital condition where the joint is looser than normal and can lock open.
These problems are diagnosed with x-rays so if you’d like a definite diagnosis, you’ll need to have a chat to your cat’s vet. | 08.10.16 @ 00:22
It sounds like there may be a problem with the temporomandibular joint which is where the back of the lower jaw meets the skull. Sometimes this joint can subluxate; this means it dislocates and pops back into position. This condition is usually due to trauma so it doesn’t sound like this would be the case with your girl. There is another possibility which is temporomandibular joint dysplasia. This is a congenital condition where the joint is looser than normal and can lock open.
These problems are diagnosed with x-rays so if you’d like a definite diagnosis, you’ll need to have a chat to your cat’s vet. | 08.10.16 @ 00:22
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Answered by
Dr Dave Brooks, BVetMed BSc MRCVS
I wonder if your cat has a sensitive tooth too... might be worth your vet checking her teeth. A "chattering" jaw can be a sign of tooth pain. Worth a check up for sure. | 08.10.16 @ 17:57
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