Cat's Diseases

Dental-Stomatitis

This is a problem seen in young to middle-aged cats and pure-bred cats may be at greater risk of developing this condition. It is an extremely painful condition and cats will often have bad breath, drool frequently and loose their appetite and consequently their weight will decrease. The gums are often bright red with proliferative and friable lesions. The teeth often have accumulations of plaque and calculus, teeth may be missing or the roots of remaining teeth may be exposed. Teeth may have resorptive lesions and radiographing apparently healthy teeth is advised as the roots may not be as healthy as the crown of the tooth would suggest.

At present the cause of the condition is unknown but is thought to be multi-factorial. The fact that the condition often heals after the extraction of effected teeth indicates that the bacterial associated with the periodontal disease may be involved. Feline calicivirus infections have been considered as one of the factors and cats infected with FIV and FeLV are known to be susceptible to severe oral disease.

Treatments with antibiotics and corticosteroids may produce remission though not always permanent. Practising good oral hygiene techniques involving regular brushing and the use of oral antiseptic solutions has been shown to reduce the incidence. Severely affected teeth often need to be extracted. It is essential to extract the roots as well and dental radiographs are advised following extractions to ensure that no root material has been left.

This is a frustrating condition which can cause both owner and patient much pain and discomfort. Despite our best efforts, upto 10% of cats will not respond to treatment long term and will continue to have ongoing problems.