What are the common causes of facial nerve paralysis?

Common causes of facial nerve paralysis include ear infections, trauma, neuritis, or central nervous system lesions. The exact cause needs to be determined by a vet through examination and imaging — a clinic visit is recommended.

Will my pet's facial drooping improve on its own?

Some cases gradually improve once inflammation is managed or the underlying cause is treated, but the timeline and extent of recovery vary by individual and cause. Regular monitoring and vet-directed check-ups are important.

How can I care for my pet at home if the eye cannot fully close?

Under your vet's guidance, use artificial tears, wipe away discharge regularly, and minimise dust or irritant exposure. If corneal problems arise or the eye worsens, seek veterinary care promptly.

Will my pet need a CT or MRI scan?

Whether advanced imaging is needed depends on the history and initial examination findings. If a brain or deep-tissue lesion is suspected, the vet may recommend CT or MRI to assess the extent of the problem.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Facial Nerve Paralysis in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Home Care [2025]

Facial nerve paralysis causes facial drooping, inability to blink, and drooling. It may result from middle ear infection, trauma, or idiopathic causes. Most idiopathic cases resolve on their own.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: WSAVA, ISFM, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Sudden generalized inability to stand or going limp
•Sudden loss of consciousness, unresponsiveness, or collapse
•Difficulty breathing or a marked color change in the lips or gums

Arrange a clinic visit as soon as possible (within 24-72 hours)

•Sudden weakness or drooping of one side of the face
•Frequent coughing/choking and difficulty when eating or drinking
•Increased eye discharge or noticeably exposed cornea

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

When the facial nerve is affected, pets often show noticeable changes in facial expression and eating. Watch for any accompanying systemic signs.

Weakness or drooping on one side of the face, with asymmetrical mouth corners
Inability to fully close the mouth corner or eyelid, causing drooling
Noticeable choking or coughing when eating or swallowing
Increased eye discharge, redness, or corneal exposure
Reduced alertness, decreased activity, or brief episodes of weakness

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Sudden generalised collapse or inability to walk
⚠️ Sudden loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness
⚠️ Difficulty breathing or obvious discolouration of the lips or gums

02How to assess the situation at home: key observations and emergency criteria

Observing and recording details at home helps your vet quickly assess the condition and establish a timeline.

Note the onset time and when each symptom first appeared
Record daily changes in appetite, water intake, and bowel/bladder habits
Film short videos of facial expressions and eating from the front and side
Weigh your pet daily and record any trend, noting weight loss
Bring all records and videos to the neurology or general clinic for assessment

03How will the vet diagnose this? Common examination steps

The vet will focus on a neurological examination, supplementing with imaging and blood tests as needed to identify the cause or rule out other conditions.

Physical examination and full neurological assessment

testing facial reflexes and muscle tone

X-rays

evaluating the skull, ear canal, or cervical spine for bony lesions

CT or MRI

checking for abnormalities in the brain or along the facial nerve pathway

Blood and biochemistry panels

assessing markers for infection, metabolic, or systemic disease

Referral to a specialist hospital with advanced imaging or neurology expertise if needed

04Treatment and care after diagnosis: medications, dietary adjustments, and care guide

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and commonly includes controlling inflammation, protecting the eyes, and supporting swallowing, with regular monitoring of recovery.

Short-term medication to control inflammation or manage symptoms may help reduce nerve swelling
Eye lubrication and protection are needed to prevent corneal ulcers and exposure injury
Modify diet or use assisted feeding methods if swallowing is difficult
Schedule regular follow-up visits as directed, with repeat imaging if necessary
Home rehabilitation exercises and tracking recovery progress for the vet to assess

05What to prepare before the vet visit: key information to help your vet work quickly

Write out a detailed timeline of when symptoms started and how they have changed

Record specific changes in appetite, water intake, and toileting

Prepare a list of current medications and supplements for the vet to review

Bring videos of facial expressions and eating to show the vet the actual condition

Use a secure carrier and book in advance at a clinic with neurology expertise

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.