If your cat has any stomatitis symptoms, you can our experienced veterinarians to take care of your feline companion
We define stomatitis as “an inflammation of the gums and mucous membranes in the mouth, including the tongue, inner lip, and roof and floor of the mouth.” Usually, this inflammation stems from allergies, exposure to certain types of medication, a bacterial infection, and several other factors. When a cat has stomatitis, it can result in painful swelling and lesions in the mouth, which makes it difficult for them to eat, and challenging for pet owners to properly clean a pet’s teeth. Read on to learn more about stomatitis and its symptoms.
The Symptoms of Stomatitis
This condition is very similar to gingivitis but more severe. It also affects other areas of the mouth besides the gums. The symptoms may be hard to spot. Depending on how much pain a cat is in, the cat may be resistant to having their mouth examined. For this reason, it’s always vital to check on your pet’s dental health, so that nothing comes as a surprise, and so that you’ll know when something is wrong. Your cat may be suffering from stomatitis if you notice any of these indicators:
- Bleeding Gums
- Blood in the Saliva
- Difficulty Eating/Crying or Groaning While Eating
- Bad Breath
- Red, Swollen, and Inflamed Gums
- Plaque on Teeth
- Lesions on the Gums
Causes of Stomatitis
Many underlying medical conditions and factors can lead to this kind of inflammation. Some include:
- Diabetes
- Allergic Response to Biofilm or Plaque on the Teeth
- Lymphoma (blood cancer that develops when white blood cells called lymphocytes grow expeditiously)
- Hormonal deficiencies
- Kidney Disease
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Parasitic, Fungal, and Bacterial Infections
- Osteomyelitis (bone disorder)
Treatment of Stomatitis
Treating this condition can prove to be quite difficult, but it’s nothing that our team of experienced veterinarians can’t handle. Sometimes the inflammation can clear up on its own once other underlying causes are removed. For example, once a cat no longer has a temporary infection, things get better. Otherwise, our veterinarians may have to remove teeth to reduce pain and give your feline friend a better quality of life. Here are a few treatments and their benefits:
- Antibiotics– Fights bacterial infections, especially after tooth extractions; may help reduce pain
- Immunosuppressants– Reduces inflammation
- Tooth Extraction– The most effective, long-term solution that allows cats to continue living well; may require a soft food diet
- Professional Cleanings/At-Home Dental Care– Prevents further inflammation and infections
If your feline friend is showcasing any of these symptoms, then please give us a call today. Our priority is to keep your pet’s health at its best.
Here at Mount Carmel Animal Hospital, We’ll Treat Your Pets Like Family!
Mount Carmel Animal Hospital has been serving the Northern Baltimore/Southern York community for over 30 years and is proud to be an independently operated, small animal practice committed to excellence in veterinary medicine and client service. From grooming to wellness services, along with Canine Life Skills Training Courses, and surgical procedures, we have the expertise that will best serve the needs of you and your pet. Contact us at 410-343-0200 and follow us on Facebook!