Cat Stomatitis & Tooth Resorption | Veterinary Dental Care
Feline Stomatitis and Tooth Resorption
Pets can be affected by oral disease just like humans. Stomatitis and tooth resorption are two concerns that you might encounter with your pet. Although more prevalent in cats, dogs can also suffer from these diseases.
Stomatitis
Stomatitis can affect both cats and dogs and is characterized by inflammation of the mouth. In dogs, it is formally referred to as Canine Chronic Ulcerative Stomatitis.
The cause of stomatitis is currently unknown but is believed to involve an immune system overreaction to plaque build-up around the teeth, ultimately leading to oral inflammation.
Cats diagnosed with some viruses are at higher risk for developing stomatitis, as are some specific feline breeds, such as Siamese. In dogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Maltese canine breeds are more prone to stomatitis.
Symptoms of Stomatitis in Cats & Dogs
- Difficulty Eating
- Vocalizing when Eating
- Bleeding Gums
- Pawing at the Mouth
- Chattering Jaw
- Halitosis
- Thick Saliva
- Decreased Appetite
- Excessive Blood in the Saliva
- Unexplained Weight Loss
- Swollen and Inflamed Gums
Tooth Resorption
Tooth resorption is one of the most common dental concerns in cats. It affects dogs less frequently. The cause of tooth resorption is unknown, but studies indicate it can be associated with other diseases and health concerns.
One of the many reasons tooth resorption concerns us is that it is painful. Teeth resorption exposes nerves and blood vessels and can affect overall health. Some animals will show jaw pain and spasms when touching the affected area. Others might show signs of increased salivation, difficulty eating or bleeding. Many animals show no obvious signs, making the detection of tooth resorption difficult.
The treatment for tooth resorption is the extraction of the affected tooth or teeth under general anesthesia. Unfortunately, there is no way to reverse the disease once it has begun. Once diagnosed, your pet will be prone to it forever.
What Happens if These Periodontal Diseases Are Left Untreated?
If feline dental disease+ is left untreated, the condition can progress rapidly, leading to severe, chronic pain and serious health complications. As inflammation worsens in cases of stomatitis, the immune system continues to attack the tissues in the mouth, making it painful for the cat to eat, groom, or even open its mouth. Tooth resorption, on the other hand, gradually destroys the structure of the teeth, exposing sensitive nerves and increasing the risk of bacterial infection.
When ignored, both conditions can lead to weight loss, malnutrition, behavioral changes, and systemic infection that may affect organs like the heart and kidneys. Ultimately, untreated oral disease doesn’t just impact quality of life—it can shorten it.
Symptoms of Canine & Feline Tooth Resorption
- Drooling
- Bad breath
- Difficulty eating
- Preference for soft food
- Pawing at the mouth
- Chattering jaw or teeth-grinding
- Decreased grooming
- Weight loss
- Behavioral changes
- Visible changes to teeth
Learn More By Contacting Veterinary Dental Care in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
If you notice clinical signs like drooling, difficulty eating, bad breath, or severe inflammation, don’t wait—these could point to serious issues like stomatitis or tooth resorption. Early detection and treatment are key to managing pain, preventing further dental disease, and improving your pet’s quality of life. While regular tooth brushing at home can help with oral hygiene, it’s no substitute for professional evaluation when deeper problems exist.
If you suspect something’s not right, contact us today to schedule a dental exam. A proactive approach can make all the difference in your animal’s oral health.