Routine veterinary dental checkups and exams can help reduce the risk of serious conditions like stomatitis. Here, our Cumming vets discuss the causes and symptoms of stomatitis in cats, why it is dangerous, and how it can be treated.
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.
Although certain breeds, such as Persians and Himalayans, are more prone to stomatitis, it can develop in any cat breed, regardless of age or sex. There are ways that you can help reduce the risk of your cat developing this disease. But first, let's discuss the causes and symptoms to watch for.
What are the causes of feline stomatitis?
Many vets believe that infections (viral or bacterial) play a large role in the development of stomatitis. Inflammatory dental diseases, such as periodontal disease, are known to be directly related to the occurrence of feline stomatitis.
Even so, routine teeth brushing and dental care are some of the easiest ways to help reduce the number of bacteria in your cat's mouth. Your vet will be able to provide you with the information you need and recommendations to help keep your cat's mouth clean.
Symptoms of Stomatitis in Cats
The first thing you may notice if your cat develops stomatitis is a refusal to eat. Cats suffering from stomatitis are often in extreme pain and have reduced appetites because of that. In some cases, food avoidance is so severe that cats become malnourished because it is so painful for them to eat.
Some commonly seen symptoms of stomatitis in cats are:
- Red patches/blisters on the mouth
- Oral bleeding
- A foul odor from the cat's mouth
- Excessive salivation/drooling
- Less grooming than is typical
- Dropping food/crying out while eating
How dangerous is stomatitis in cats?
If your cat has untreated stomatitis, it can lead to other serious medical issues. Your cat may begin to refuse food because of the pain they are experiencing, which can cause sudden and severe weight loss. They may also drink less, which can cause dehydration, a serious and potentially life-threatening health condition.
How do vets diagnose feline stomatitis?
When you bring your cat to the vet due to mouth irritation or bleeding, they will first conduct an oral examination. If your cat has mild stomatitis, taking care of it at home may be sufficient treatment. However, advanced cases may require surgery. It is important to consult your vet to understand the best course of action for your cat's treatment.
Treatment for Stomatitis in Cats
Tooth extraction surgery may sometimes be used to remove the damaged tooth and protect the surrounding teeth. In addition to treatment, regular dental checkups and general wellness exams will likely become part of your cat's medical routine.
The frequency of these checkups will depend on the extent of periodontal disease in your cat. If your adult cat has overcrowded teeth or still has its baby teeth, your vet may suggest tooth extraction once again.
In addition to medical intervention, your vet should guide you on proper teeth cleaning for your cat and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your feline's dental health.
Preventing Stomatitis in Cats
Daily brushing can help prevent serious conditions in cats, like stomatitis. If plaque is brushed or wiped away before it can cause damage or infection, your cat's teeth and gums will have a much better chance of remaining healthy.
To help keep your kitty's teeth in tip-top condition, bring your pet in for a professional dental examination and cleaning once a year. Dental appointments at Animal Medical Center of Cumming are like taking your kitty for an appointment at the veterinary cat dentist.
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.