Causes of Canine Stomatitis: What You Need to Know

One: Types of Canine Stomatitis

Stomatitis in dogs can be categorized into three primary types based on their nature: catarrhal, vesicular, and ulcerative.

In everyday life, dogs are much more prone to catarrhal stomatitis than the other two types, making it the most common form of the condition. Stomatitis is a nonseasonal disease that can occur at any time of the year. However, historical cases suggest that the likelihood of the disease peaks during the late summer and early autumn. Therefore, pet owners should pay extra attention to their dogs during these periods, ensuring they stay away from potential pathogens to minimize the risk of developing stomatitis and to prevent their pets from experiencing unnecessary discomfort.

1. Although catarrhal stomatitis is the most prevalent, it is also the mildest in terms of symptoms. While local symptoms may be pronounced, the duration of the condition is generally short. However, it is important not to overlook this condition, as it can potentially escalate into a severe form of stomatitis or lead to systemic infections.

2. Vesicular stomatitis is an acute disease caused by the vesicular stomatitis virus and has the characteristic of being zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted between humans and animals. This disease has a long incubation period and a wide range of transmission, often resulting in significant harm. Pet owners must be cautious of this condition. The virus has bulletlike or cylindrical shapes, with vesicles and RNA on its surface, and it can be dissolved in lipid solvents. This virus is highly unstable and can be quickly killed with 2% sodium hydroxide or 1% formaldehyde.

3. Ulcerative stomatitis is caused by acute bacterial infections of the oral mucosa, often involving bacteria such as Streptococcus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Two: Common Causes of Canine Stomatitis

There are numerous factors that can lead to canine stomatitis, which can be broadly categorized into three main causes:

1. Immune Deficiency

Immune suppression leading to bacterial infections is a relatively common cause of canine stomatitis. Just as humans become more susceptible to illnesses when their immune systems are compromised, dogs with severe immune deficiencies lose their ability to resist viruses and bacteria, effectively removing their protective barriers. When viruses attack, immune cells fail to function properly, making it more likely for dogs to fall ill and suffer from increased bodily stress. Immune deficiency and suppression can weaken a dog's natural defenses, lowering their immunity to various bacterial toxins, making them more prone to developing stomatitis.

2. Kidney Dysfunction and Adrenal Cortex Insufficiency

Both kidney dysfunction and adrenal cortex insufficiency can lead to improper kidney function, resulting in abnormal urine filtration and reabsorption, disrupting the internal environment and compromising overall health. This, in turn, can weaken the dog's immune system, making them more susceptible to infections like stomatitis.

3. Trauma

Trauma is a significant cause of canine stomatitis. Mechanical injuries, such as dogs eating bones hidden in meat or fish bones that pierce the mucosa, or irregular tooth growth that may damage the mouth, are common causes of trauma. Additionally, other physical injuries can also contribute to the development of stomatitis.

Oxygen Pet Doctor's Tip: A deficiency in vitamins can also lead to stomatitis in dogs. Pet owners should not solely feed their pets meat; vegetables and fruits should be included in their diet in appropriate amounts.