Chronic Gingivostomatitis in Cats
A severe, painful inflammatory condition of the gums and oral mucosa in cats, believed to involve an exaggerated immune response to dental plaque.
Overview
Feline chronic gingivostomatitis causes widespread, severe inflammation of the oral mucosa well beyond typical gum disease, and can be significantly debilitating due to the level of pain involved. A viral trigger, such as calicivirus, is suspected to play a role in some cases.
Clinical signs
- Severe oral pain
- Drooling, sometimes blood-tinged
- Reduced appetite and weight loss
- Halitosis
- Pawing at the mouth and reluctance to be touched near the face
Diagnosis
- Oral exam, often requiring sedation given the level of pain, showing inflammation extending beyond the teeth into the oral mucosa
- Biopsy in atypical cases to rule out other causes, such as oral tumors
Treatment
- Full-mouth or partial-mouth tooth extraction, often the most effective long-term treatment since it removes the surface plaque adheres to
- Pain management throughout treatment
- Immune-modulating medication for cats that do not fully resolve after extractions
Prognosis
The majority of cats show significant improvement or full resolution after full-mouth extractions. Some cats require ongoing medical management even after extractions.
This page is general reference information for educational purposes. It is not a substitute for an individual clinical assessment, current formulary guidance, or the judgment of a licensed veterinarian treating a specific patient.
Frequently asked questions
Will my cat be able to eat normally without teeth?
Yes - the vast majority of cats adapt very well to eating without teeth, especially once the underlying pain is resolved. Many cats eat more comfortably after extractions than they did before.
Is this the same as normal gum disease?
No - chronic gingivostomatitis is a more severe, immune-driven condition affecting the wider mouth, not just the gum line around the teeth, and it does not respond to routine dental cleaning alone.