Feline Stomatitis
Feline stomatitis is a condition of the oral cavity in cats characterized by red, friable gums that often grow over and cover the teeth, as well as inflammation of the teeth and bony tissue of the jaw.
Cats affected with this disorder often have difficulty chewing their food, have foul-smelling breath, salivate profusely, and might even have inflamed lips. The inflammation associated with the disease can also spread to the back of the throat, making it difficult to swallow.
The exact cause of this disorder in cats is unknown; however, conceivably any type of chronic inflammation that attracts inflammatory cells to the area could cause such a reaction. Diagnosis of feline stomatitis is made by collecting a biopsy sample of the affected tissue and radiographing the oral cavity to determine the extent of involvement. Treatment consists of surgically removing and/or cauterizing the excess gum tissue, as well as any teeth or bony tissue affected. In especially severe cases, steroid anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, and pain relievers may be used as well.
Owners can help slow the recurrence of this disorder by following a strict regimen of dental care for their cats, including the daily treatment of both teeth and gums with a paste, gel, or solution containing chlorhexidine.
Cats affected with this disorder often have difficulty chewing their food, have foul-smelling breath, salivate profusely, and might even have inflamed lips. The inflammation associated with the disease can also spread to the back of the throat, making it difficult to swallow.
The exact cause of this disorder in cats is unknown; however, conceivably any type of chronic inflammation that attracts inflammatory cells to the area could cause such a reaction. Diagnosis of feline stomatitis is made by collecting a biopsy sample of the affected tissue and radiographing the oral cavity to determine the extent of involvement. Treatment consists of surgically removing and/or cauterizing the excess gum tissue, as well as any teeth or bony tissue affected. In especially severe cases, steroid anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, and pain relievers may be used as well.
Owners can help slow the recurrence of this disorder by following a strict regimen of dental care for their cats, including the daily treatment of both teeth and gums with a paste, gel, or solution containing chlorhexidine.
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