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I have a small rat terrier that has of late (2 days) not closed her mouth entirely.She has been lethargic and not her normal spunky self. Up to this time she is eager to go outside but that stopped. What could be causing this situation?Thank you
Optional Information: Type of Animal: RAT TERRIER Pet's Gender: Female Pet's Age: 8 Already Tried: NOTHING. JUST NOTICED IT WAS CONTINOUS.
Hi Jacustomer-bqisodr0~
Does she get bones, rawhides or chew hard toys?Is she eating and drinking normally?Can you see any increased redness on her gums at all?
No bones, rawhides or hard toys.
At this time yes.
No, have not noticed any redness
Could there have been any trauma to her head/face?
I don't think so as she spends most of her time inside and is watched, in a good way, all of the time. Nothing outside as my wife watches her like a hawk.
Thanks for answering my questions.
Because she's an 8 year old dog, one of the most likely options would be some kind of dental problem. Teeth can be fractured, even if you can't see the break. Often, they can become injured/broken under the gum line.
The fact that she's still eating and drinking normally is a very good sign, but I would still have your vet take a peek at her tomorrow if they're open, but Monday if they're not. They'll take a good look to make sure her teeth are healthy, and will explore other possibilities such as nerve damage or even joint problems.
I hope this helps.
Experience: AAS Vet Tech. Bully breed rehab & Behavior modification