Discover the painful condition of stomatitis, a severe gum disease affecting cats. Our Douglasville veterinarians offer valuable insights into its causes, signs to watch for, and available treatment options.
What is Stomatitis in Cats?
Feline stomatitis is a highly painful condition characterized by inflammation and ulcers in your cat's gums, cheeks, and tongue. These open sores can cause significant discomfort and pain for your cat, often leading to food avoidance or refusal. This frustrating disease affects around 10% of domesticated cats.
Although certain breeds, such as Persians and Himalayans, are more prone to developing stomatitis, any cat can be affected. However, there are preventive measures you can take to help reduce the risk.
Causes of Feline Stomatitis
Stomatitis in cats has various causes, but many remain a mystery. Some experts suggest viral and bacterial factors contribute to its development, though the specific bacterial source is yet to be identified. Additionally, inflammatory dental diseases, like periodontal disease, are directly linked to feline stomatitis.
Regardless of the cause, most vets will advise you to help your cat avoid developing this painful condition by brushing their teeth regularly. Some breeds can have their teeth brushed once daily to remove food particles and bacteria, while others should only have their teeth cleaned once a week or during professional grooming appointments. Consult your veterinarian for what is the best at-home dental routine for your kitty.
Symptoms of Stomatitis in Cats
Signs of stomatitis in cats are easily noticed by observing their eating habits. Cats with stomatitis experience extreme pain and reduced appetite, sometimes leading to malnourishment due to the discomfort caused by eating. Other symptoms to watch out for in cats with stomatitis include:
- Red patches/blisters of the mouth
- Oral bleeding
- Foul odor of the cat's mouth
- Excessive salivation/drooling
- Less grooming than is typical
- Dropping food/crying out while eating
How Stomatitis in Cats is Treated
Bringing your cat to the vet for mouth irritation or bleeding will involve an oral examination. If the condition is mild, you can take care of your cat at home. However, severe cases may need surgery. It's important to consult your vet for the best treatment plan.
If dental surgery is required, your vet may recommend extracting affected teeth to relieve your cat's discomfort and promote healing.
Along with treatment, your cat may need regular dental checkups based on the extent of periodontal disease. If your adult cat has overcrowded teeth or "kitten" teeth, tooth extraction might be suggested again.
Your vet will also guide you on proper teeth cleaning for your cat and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor their dental health.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.