Causes and Symptoms of Feline Chronic Gingivitis Explai

Section 1: Causes of Chronic Gingivitis and Stomatitis in Cats

1. Viral Infections Affecting the Cat's Oral cavity

Cats can suffer from oral infections caused by viruses such as the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), Feline Herpesvirus, Calicivirus, or Feline Distemper Virus. These pathogens can lead to infections in the cat's mouth or gums, contributing to the development of gingivostomatitis. When cats are infected with these viruses, they experience a suppression of their immune system, allowing bacteria to thrive in the affected gum tissue, leading to a gradual worsening of the condition.

2. Poor Oral Hygiene Leading to Bacterial Infections

The cat's diet and oral hygiene are significant factors in the formation of tartar, which is a key contributor to dental disease. If a cat consumes a soft diet and fails to maintain proper dental care, tartar can easily form and harbor a multitude of oral bacteria. Due to the cat's sensitive oral cavity, this can lead to excessive inflammatory reactions. Cats with chronic gingivitis exhibit more and more severe clinical symptoms than other animals with similar oral diseases, highlighting the uniqueness and fragility of feline stomatitis.

3. Suspected Allergic Reactions to Ingredients in Commercial Cat Food

The timing of the emergence and spread of these diseases in China coincides with the introduction of commercial cat food. This has led to the suspicion that certain additives in these foods may cause allergic reactions in some cats, triggering hypersensitive responses that lead to oral hyperplasia, ulcers, and infections, among other pathological changes.

4. Secondary Effects of Other Diseases

Cats with systemic diseases such as diabetes or systemic lupus erythematosus often experience oral ulcers. However, the specific factors that cause chronic gingivitis in cats are still not fully understood. Hyperplastic ulcerative stomatitis and lymphocytic/plasmacytic stomatitis are further developments from common gingivitis and periodontal diseases, representing a stage in the progression of feline oral diseases.

Section 2: Clinical Symptoms of Cat Gingivostomatitis

1. Continuous Drooling, Painful Eating, and Behavioral Changes

Cats with gingivostomatitis may constantly drool, exhibit pain during eating and swallowing, and may tilt their heads while eating. They may also have halitosis, scratch at their cheeks with their front paws, and occasionally show signs of distress, crying out in pain.

2. Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss

Cats may refuse to eat or develop a lack of appetite, leading to weight loss and depression over time.

3. Visible Symptoms During Clinical Examination

During a clinical examination, the gums of affected cats may appear red and swollen, with widespread ulcers in the mouth. The gums, throat, tongue, soft palate, and other areas may be ulcerated, with the most severe lesions often found around the last molars.

The progression of chronic gingivitis and stomatitis in cats is a process that can be divided into four stages, with symptoms becoming increasingly severe as the stages progress.

It is hoped that this information shared by Oxygen Pet Doctor will provide some insight into the causes and symptoms of feline chronic gingivitis, highlighting the importance of maintaining oral hygiene to prevent these diseases.