Elderly cat with abscessed or infected tooth

We have an older cat, Bella, who is having problems with a mouth infection. We've known for a while that she is missing several teeth, and the others are not in good shape. This week, her breath became even smellier, and her mouth is visibly swollen. She won't let us get a good enough look inside her mouth to tell if she has developed a pus pocket. She is still drinking, and will eat diluted soft food mixed with baby food. She is obviously uncomfortable. The problem is, we are going through an unusually tough time financially at the moment, and can't really afford to take her to the vet. (We moved recently, and have not established with a vet in our new city.) At her advanced age, we don't want to put her through the trauma of having her teeth pulled, but would like to get the infection under control, so she can enjoy being petted and loved for whatever time we still have with her. Our local farm supply store has injectable penicillin for animals of all sizes. Would this be appropriate to treat her with, and if so, what dosage and how often? Please don't criticize or "flame" us for not being in a position to afford a vet visit right now. We do love our cats, and want to do right by them. Thanks to all in advance for your advice and suggestions.

If you had a relationship with a vet before you moved, it might be worth calling or emailing him or her and asking if this is okay and if it is, to get advice on proper dosing. You might also ask about amoxicillin available OTC for fish tanks.

Having said that, your cat really does need to see a vet. Have you considered getting a CareCredit card? Also, some vets will work out payment plans. Another route people take is setting up gofundme pages.

Thanks. We have been asking friends for vet recommendations, and will call a few tomorrow. (Not using the emergency vet here, as we had a very unsavory experience with them.) Unfortunately, Care Credit isn't an option. We've been told there are one or two vets in the area who will work with you on payment.

Her teeth issues are a sign of more extensive issues going on with her health.  It sounds like she might have stomatitis, which has nothing to do with the stomach at all, but is a serious health condition that needs medical attention.  I hope you're able to get her to a vet that will work with you on payments quickly.