Feline Stomatitis
FELINE STOMATITIS
Jan Bellows, D.V.M.
9111 Taft Street
Pembroke Pines, Florida
954-432-1111
Cats can also be affected by inflammation of the entire mouth called
stomatitis or lymphocytic plasmacytic syndrome (LPS). An immune related
cause is suspected due to large amount of plasma cells encountered on
microscopic examination of the inflamed tissues. Many cats affected by (LPS)
will be unable to eat, develop weight loss, and excess salivation. Oral
examination often reveals a "cobble stone"- like redness in the throat area
and severe inflammation where the tooth and gums meet. The premolar and molar
areas are usually affected more than the canines and incisors. Intraoral
x-rays often reveal moderate to severe periodontal disease. In addition to
generalized inflammation, all stages of feline oral resorptive lesions may
be present.
In the past, therapy options for feline stomatitis included thorough teeth
cleaning and polishing, fluoride, corticosteroids, gold therapy, antibiotics,
lasers and strict daily brushing . In most cases cats were only temporarily
helped with these therapies.
Newer treatment options include general cleaning, polishing, application of
fluoride, and extraction of those teeth affected by FORLs or severe
periodontal disease. In addition, a home care program is begun. The client is
instructed how to brush their cat's teeth daily followed by irrigation with
.2% chlorhexidine. If the initial treatment does not succeed within two
months, then all remaining teeth are removed behind the canines. Although
somewhat radical, in most cases this will provide long term success.
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Copyright © 1996, 1997 Craig Cockburn
E-mail: craig@scot.demon.co.uk
or craig@acm.org
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