What are the symptoms of feline gingivostomatitis?

Intense oral pain: the cat stops eating or eats with difficulty. Drooling, sometimes with blood. Marked bad breath. Very red and inflamed gums and back of the mouth. The cat grooms itself less (unkempt coat). Weight loss. Sometimes cries out when yawning

Is Feline gingivostomatitis contagious?

Feline gingivostomatitis does not spread directly between animals.

Boca y dientes

Feline gingivostomatitis

Intense and painful inflammation of the gums and lining of the cat's mouth. It is one of the most painful oral diseases. It greatly affects quality of life.

Severe🐈 Cats

Symptoms to watch for

• Intense oral pain: the cat stops eating or eats with difficulty
• Drooling, sometimes with blood
• Marked bad breath
• Very red and inflamed gums and back of the mouth
• The cat grooms itself less (unkempt coat)
• Weight loss
• Sometimes cries out when yawning

Causes

An exaggerated immune response to bacterial plaque, often associated with viruses (calicivirus, FIV, FeLV). The exact cause is not fully understood.

Diagnosis

Examination of the mouth plus assessment under anaesthesia. The vet will usually test for FIV/FeLV and calicivirus.

Treatment

The most effective treatment is usually dental extraction (partial or full): although it may seem drastic, cats eat very well without teeth and the pain disappears. Supported with anti-inflammatories and, in some cases, immunomodulators.

Prevention

Difficult to prevent. Dental hygiene, vaccination, reducing stress. Early detection prevents prolonged suffering.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if your cat drools, struggles to eat, has strong bad breath or has stopped grooming. It is a very painful but treatable disease — don't let it slide.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.