Overview:

Also known as lymphocytic-plasmacytic gingivitis-stomatitis-pharyngitis (GSPC), stomatitis  is a common disease causing chronic inflammation & ulceration of the soft tissues in the mouth. There is no definitive cause but it is felt to be multi factoral with an immune mediated component, possibly representing a hypersensitivity to oral bacterial antigens. [1] Other possible factors include  oral irritants, some viruses, immunodeficiency diseases, metabolic diseases, drug reactions etc.

What are the symptoms of stomatitis?

Signs of stomatitis depend on the severity of the lesions, naturally it can cause severe pain in the affected cat. Stomatitis most commonly begins in the fauces, which is the area in the back of the mouth where the lower jaw meets the upper jaw. This becomes red, swollen & ulcerated. Other symptoms include;

• Anorexia
• Weight loss
• Bad breath
• Difficulty eating
• Excessive salivation
• Gums which bleed easily
• Reluctance to groom

How is stomatitis diagnosed?

Stomatitis is diagnosed by the appearance of the affected tissues.

• Oral biopsy - A biopsy may be performed to determine if the lesions are caused by other diseases such as neoplasia (cancer) or eosinophilic granuloma complex. Biopsy should reveal a dense infiltration of lymphocytes & plasma cells.
• FIV & FeLV test - Retroviral infections can lead to inflammatory oral disease.
• Biochemical profile to rule out other conditions which may have a similar appearance to stomatitis.
• X-ray - To check the condition of the dental roots & bones. Stomatitis often affects the molars & pre-molars more than the canines & incisors.

How is stomatitis treated?

Stomatitis is very difficult to treat & response to many treatments are poor.

If the cause can be identified, then specific therapy can be aimed at treating or managing the problem, as indicated.

Professional cleaning of the teeth under anaesthesia is necessary, as periodontal disease may cause or at least contribute to stomatitis.

Antibiotics given long term may be of benefit.

Corticosteroids.

Cats unresponsive to treatment may require extraction of all teeth behind the canines to provide long term relief. This may sound extreme but your cat will get along just fine without these teeth with the assistance of a softer diet.

Daily cleaning of  your cat's teeth at home is required to keep plaque under control.

References:

1: The Feline Patient - Gary D. Norsworthy, Mitchell A. Crystal, Sharon K. Fooshee & Larry P. Tilley.