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Cat Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation FAQ — Key Information for Pet Owners

Oral HealthQ&AMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

Cat temporomandibular joint dislocation can cause sudden pain and difficulty eating. Here’s a summary of key information for pet owners to know.

What is feline temporomandibular joint dislocation?

A cat with a dislocated temporomandibular joint, unable to close its mouth.

Feline temporomandibular joint (TMJ) luxation occurs when the condylar process of the mandible (lower jaw) dislocates from its articular surface on the skull. In most cases, the condyle displaces rostrodorsally (forward and upward), resulting in an inability to fully close the mouth. This misalignment causes malocclusion, where the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly, making it difficult to close the mouth and eat. Trauma is the primary cause, and this condition is relatively rare in cats. It is often confused with "open-mouth jaw locking," another condition that prevents mouth closure, so accurate differential diagnosis is crucial. To avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment, seek veterinary care immediately. TMJ luxation: A condition in which the mandibular condyle is displaced from its normal position, leading to an inability to close the mouth and accompanying malocclusion.

Why does temporomandibular joint dislocation occur in cats?

The most common cause of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) luxation in cats is trauma. Veterinary textbooks also state that TMJ luxation is mostly caused by trauma. Car accidents, falls from heights, or impacts to the face can displace the condylar process from its normal position. When luxation occurs, the lower jaw shifts to the opposite side, causing the upper and lower teeth to misalign and preventing the mouth from closing completely. Although this condition is relatively rare in cats, it’s important to carefully observe whether your cat can close its mouth after sustaining trauma. Additionally, an accurate diagnosis is necessary to differentiate it from other jaw disorders with similar symptoms. - Trauma: The most common cause of joint displacement, often resulting from car accidents, falls, or facial impacts. - Malocclusion: During luxation, the lower jaw shifts, causing misalignment of the upper and lower teeth and preventing the mouth from closing.

Diagram of the feline temporomandibular joint anatomy

What are the main symptoms of feline temporomandibular joint dislocation?

The most common sign of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation in cats is an inability to fully close the mouth, leaving it stuck open. When the jaw dislocates, the lower jaw shifts out of alignment, causing malocclusion, where the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly. This can make it very difficult for your cat to eat or drink. They may also drool because they can’t close their mouth, or show signs of discomfort due to pain. These symptoms often appear suddenly right after an injury. However, since an inability to close the mouth can also occur with other jaw conditions, it’s best to visit a veterinarian right away for an accurate diagnosis. - Mouth stuck open: The displaced joint prevents the mouth from closing naturally. - Malocclusion and difficulty eating: Misaligned upper and lower teeth make it hard for your cat to eat properly.

A cat with a dislocated jaw joint, its mouth held open

When to seek immediate veterinary care

If your cat can’t close its mouth, has trouble eating, or seems uncomfortable due to pain, seek veterinary care right away. An open mouth can make it difficult for your cat to eat and drink, so prompt evaluation is essential. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination and take X-rays to confirm the diagnosis, then proceed with appropriate reduction (repositioning) treatment. Delaying diagnosis and treatment can prolong discomfort, so it’s best to have your cat seen as soon as possible.

What are the treatment options?

Accurate diagnosis of feline temporomandibular joint luxation is essential, typically requiring a physical examination and radiographs, particularly in the dorsoventral view. This is crucial because it must be distinguished from "open-mouth lockjaw," a condition with similar symptoms of an inability to close the mouth but with entirely different causes and treatments. Once the correct diagnosis is made, a treatment plan can be formulated. Reduction of the luxated joint is often performed under sedation or anesthesia by placing a wooden stick or similar support between the upper and lower molars (carnassial teeth) to guide the jaw into closure and realign the joint. Professional intervention is necessary for precise positioning and pain management. During recovery, it is advisable to provide soft food and manage the cat’s condition according to your veterinarian’s instructions. - Closed reduction (realignment procedure): The dislocated joint is realigned using a support placed between the molars. - Accurate diagnosis: Radiographs are used to differentiate the condition from other diseases with similar symptoms.

A veterinarian repairing a cat's temporomandibular joint

Home care management

After treatment for temporomandibular joint dislocation, the most important thing at home is to follow your veterinarian’s instructions precisely. Switch to soft, liquid, or jelly-type food to make swallowing easier, and offer water in small amounts slowly. Administer pain-relief medication exactly as prescribed by your vet. During recovery, restrict vigorous activity and allow your cat to rest comfortably in a quiet environment. Monitor your cat’s condition daily, and contact the clinic immediately if you notice any abnormalities, such as an inability to close the mouth or eat. - Dietary care: Switch to soft, liquid food to facilitate swallowing. - Medication management: Administer medication exactly according to the veterinarian’s prescribed dosage and schedule.

A cat resting after treatment for a temporomandibular joint dislocation

Prevention methods to avoid recurrence

Feline temporomandibular joint dislocations are most often caused by trauma, so the best way to prevent recurrence is to minimize the risk of injury. Reduce situations where your cat could fall from heights or collide with objects, and provide a safe indoor environment. It’s also important to avoid major impacts, such as those from car accidents. After treatment, follow your veterinarian’s guidance to monitor recovery, and check whether your cat can close its mouth properly and eat without difficulty. If symptoms like an inability to close the mouth reappear, consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis. Regular check-ups to assess oral and jaw health can also be helpful. - Environmental management: Provide a safe environment that reduces the risk of trauma from falls or collisions. - Regular check-ups: Have your veterinarian examine your cat’s mouth and jaw during routine visits.

Cat Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation: Mild vs. Severe Management

Item	Mild Cases	Severe Cases
Difficulty closing the mouth	Temporary	Persistent
Ability to eat	Partially possible	Completely impossible
Degree of pain	Slight	Severe
Need for treatment	Veterinary consultation	Immediate hospital visit

If symptoms worsen, immediate veterinary care is needed.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is temporomandibular joint dislocation common in cats?

It's relatively uncommon in cats. However, it can occur after trauma, so if your cat is unable to close its mouth following an accident or fall, you should monitor it closely.

Can I reset my pet’s jaw at home?

Do not attempt to realign the joint yourself, as improper manipulation can cause further damage. Accurate diagnosis and proper reduction must be performed by a veterinarian.

How long does it take to recover after treatment?

The recovery period varies depending on the severity of the injury and the individual pet. It is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions by offering soft food and closely monitoring your pet’s condition.

What should I do if my pet isn’t eating?

If your pet can’t close its mouth properly and is having trouble eating or drinking, please visit the clinic right away. A veterinarian will assess the situation and guide you on the best way to provide necessary nutrition and hydration.

Can it recur?

There is a risk of recurrence. In particular, if trauma occurs repeatedly, the joint can dislocate again, so it’s important to take measures that reduce the risk of injury from falls or collisions.

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References

[1] Bellows J. Feline Dentistry – Oral Assessment, Treatment, and Preventative Care. 1st ed. Ames: Wiley-Blackwell; 2010.

[2] DeBowes LJ. Simple and surgical exodontia. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2005;35:963–984.

[3] Perry R, Moore D, Scurrell E. Globe penetration in a cat following maxillary nerve block for dental surgery. J Feline Med Surg. 2015;17:66–72.