Stomatitis is a severe type of gum disease that can cause significant pain in cats. Our veterinarians in Pittsboro explain the potential reasons behind this condition, how to identify its symptoms in cats and the available treatment options.
What is Stomatitis in Cats?
Feline stomatitis is a painful inflammation and ulceration of your cat's gums, cheeks, and tongue. This mouth condition leads to open sores that can cause your cat a great deal of discomfort and pain, often resulting in refusal or avoidance of food. This frustrating disease affects 10% of domesticated cats, and while some breeds, like Persians and Himalayans, are more susceptible to developing it, all cats can develop stomatitis. However, there are ways to help prevent it.
Causes of Feline Stomatitis
The specific causes of stomatitis in cats are largely unknown. However, veterinarians have identified that viral and bacterial factors may contribute to the development of the condition, although the exact source of this bacteria is yet to be determined. Inflammatory dental diseases, such as periodontal disease, are directly linked to feline stomatitis.
To prevent your cat from developing this painful condition, it is recommended that you regularly brush its teeth. Different breeds may require varying frequencies of teeth cleaning, ranging from once a day to once a week or during professional grooming appointments. It is best to consult your veterinarian to determine the most effective at-home dental routine for your cat.
Symptoms of Stomatitis in Cats
Cats suffering from stomatitis experience a change in their eating habits, which is the most noticeable sign of this condition. These cats are often in severe pain, leading to a reduced appetite. In some cases, cats may become malnourished due to the pain they experience while eating. Apart from changes in eating habits, other symptoms of stomatitis in cats include:
- Red patches/blisters on the mouth
- Oral bleeding
- The 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
If you notice that your cat is experiencing irritation or bleeding in their mouth, it's important to take them to the vet. During an oral exam, the vet can determine the severity of the issue. Mild cases of stomatitis can be treated with at-home care, but more severe cases may require surgical intervention. Your vet can provide you with more information on the best course of treatment for your feline friend.
When surgery is necessary, the vet may recommend extracting the affected teeth to help alleviate your cat's discomfort and promote healing. Additionally, your cat's regular medical routine may need to include dental checkups, especially if they have periodontal disease. Depending on the severity of the condition, your vet may suggest tooth extraction if your cat's teeth are overcrowded or if they still have their "kitten" teeth.
In addition to medical treatment, your vet should also teach you how to properly clean your cat's teeth and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your cat's 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.