Stomatitis in Cats

Stomatitis in cats is a complex, painful, and frustrating disease that causes severe inflammation of the entire mouth, including the gingiva (gum tissue around the teeth) and mucous membranes.

Feline stomatitis [often called feline chronic gingivo-stomatitis (FCGS) by veterinary dentists] affects up to 10% of cats.

The first symptom of feline stomatitis you may notice is a foul odor coming from your cat’s mouth. This may be accompanied by excessive salivation/drooling, or you may notice that your cat is not grooming themselves as much.  

You might also see your cat dropping food from their mouth or crying out while eating. Some cats become so painful they become hesitant to eat and may avoid food to the point that they start losing weight.

The cause of stomatitis in cats is unknown. Veterinarians do know that there is an abnormal immune system response that leads to stomatitis. It’s most likely an exaggerated response to bacteria and plaque on the teeth, but the exact cause of that response remains a mystery.

Veterinarians diagnose stomatitis in cats primarily by doing a thorough oral examination.

Severe inflammation of the gums (gingiva) along with severe inflammation of the inside of the cheeks (buccal mucosa) and the back of the mouth (caudal oropharynx) is usually diagnostic for stomatitis.

Many patients also experience tooth resorption and inflammation of the bone around the teeth (periodontitis) at the same time.

Successful treatment of feline stomatitis requires minimizing bacteria in the cat’s mouth as much as possible. This is rarely achieved through at-home dental care or anesthetized cleanings alone, as even a small amount of bacteria or plaque can be seen in cats with severe stomatitis.

In fact, cats with stomatitis often have severe inflammation that does not resolve or quickly returns after a thorough dental cleaning by their veterinarian. The current recommended treatment is partial or full-mouth tooth extraction surgery.

While this may seem to be a drastic measure, it is currently the best way to achieve substantial and long-term comfort for affected cats. This can be an extensive surgery, and your veterinarian may recommend a consultation with or referral to an American Veterinary Dental College specialist (aka, a veterinary dentist).

Studies have shown that 90% of cats that undergo partial or full-mouth tooth extractions have shown complete resolution of their symptoms. 

For cats that eat hard kibble, they should be transitioned to canned food before surgery with a plan to remain on a softened diet for at least two to three weeks after tooth extractions.

For cats that are hesitant to eat during the first few days after surgery, your veterinarian can prescribe an appetite stimulant. Your veterinarian will also provide medications for you to take home for post-surgical pain and inflammation.

Once the gum tissue has healed, many cats are willing and able to eat kibble again. And cat owners often see a quick improvement in their cat’s attitude, appetite, and quality of life once their mouth is free from the pain and inflammation of stomatitis.