Stomatitis

Stomatitis in Cats (Plasmacytic-Lymphocytic Gingivitis)

Stomatitis in cats, also known as plasmacytic-lymphocytic gingivitis, is inflammation of the mouth.  Signs can vary because one portion of the mouth may be more intensely inflamed than another.  The disease produces a very sore mouth, which makes eating difficult.  The exact cause is not known, but several diseases can cause oral or mouth inflammations of this severity.  Less than 2% of all cats are affected by this condition.  Suspected causes include infections with various bacteria, the feline leukemia virus, feline calicivirus, and the feline immunodeficiency virus.  Hypersensitivity (allergic reaction) to various agents has also been suggested, based on the types of antibodies found in diseased cats.  A physical examination and laboratory tests are used to discover the cause of stomatitis.  Ruling out the above diseases is an important part of the diagnostic plan.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Periodic laboratory tests may be required to monitor your pet's progress during and possibly after treatment.

2. Diet: Your cat's diet may need to be adjusted.  Also a thorough, initial dental cleaning is often a major requirement to treat this condition.  Dental calculus and plaque contain high percentages of bacteria and teeth cleaning can be very beneficial.

3. Medication: Antibiotic therapy and anti-inflammatory medications are often an essential part of the treatment plan.

4. It is common that one treatment does not resolve the problem; in fact, control, rather than total cure may be the final outcome.

Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:

• Your pet refuses to eat or paws at its mouth.
• You cannot administer the medication as prescribed.

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