What Is Stomatitis in Cats?
A painful swelling of the soft tissue inside a cat’s lips is known as stomatitis. It is comparable to gingivitis, a form of periodontal disease. However, stomatitis affects the mucosal tissues, including the tongue, lips, roof, and floor of the mouth.
stomatitis cats may not want to eat because the disease is painful. When chewing hurts, some people will hiss or cry while trying to consume. Additionally, when they yawn or shift their mouths to groom themselves, they might exhibit pain signals. The continuous pain in their mouths may alter their actions and demeanor.
Your cat’s oral tissue will appear red and swollen. They could slobber a lot. Chronic bad odour can occur in cats with stomatitis as well.
What are Feline Stomatitis cats and what are the symptoms?
Numerous names for feline stomatitis have been used, most notably Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis (FCGS). About 0.7–4% of cats have FCGS, a chronic disease that is extremely painful and frequently crippling and is brought on by severe inflammation of the tissues in the mouth. Based on where the inflammation in the mouth occurs, two different forms of this condition are identified. Inflammation, which begins in the gums and the tissues surrounding the teeth, characterises the first type (the periodontum). The second type, known as Caudal Stomatitis, affects the “fauces,” or the junction of the lower and upper jaws, at the rear of the mouth. Treatment for caudal stomatitis might be more difficult.
Symptoms of Stomatitis in Cats
A bad smell emanating from your cat’s mouth may be the first sign of feline stomatitis. This might be followed by excessive salivation or drooling, or your cat might stop grooming itself as frequently.
Your cat may also cry out while eating or spill food from their mouth. Some cats experience such excruciating pain that they start to avoid sustenance to the point where they begin to lose weight.
Causes of Stomatitis in Cats
Stomatitis in cats has an enigmatic origin. Veterinarians are aware that stomatitis is caused by an abnormal immune system reaction. Although the precise cause of that response is still unknown, it is most likely an exaggerated reaction to germs and plaque on the teeth.
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Treatment for stomatitis in cats
The first step to treating stomatitis in cats is to take them to your local vet. Your vet will be able to examine them to determine whether they have any dental disease, and if so, how severe this disease is. They will also be able to advise on the best treatment options.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are one therapy your veterinarian might advise you. Antibiotics are occasionally used to recover control during a disease flare-up and to manage secondary bacterial infections that could otherwise exacerbate the pain and inflammation. Inflammation and discomfort can be reduced as a result of improving feline stomatitis with the help of antibiotics. Your cat’s health will need to be watched after it has improved because it may flare up again. Only during flare-ups are antibiotics advised, not over the long run.
steroid drugs
stomatitis cats suffering from may benefit from the use of steroids. They are typically saved for the most serious instances in order to regain control during a flare-up.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs, also known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are a popular treatment for feline stomatitis. Along with reducing pain, these medications also reduce inflammation.
tooth extraction
Tooth extraction may be the best course of action if canine stomatitis has advanced too far. The inflammation and the amount of bacteria in your cat’s mouth will both be reduced by having the molars surrounding the inflamed tissue extracted. Extreme instances may necessitate the extraction of a significant number of teeth in order to control the illness.
