12 Sep How Feline Stomatitis Is Treated by Veterinary Dentists
If you’ve noticed your cat drooling, pawing at their mouth, or suddenly refusing food, it may not just be a picky eating phase. These can be signs of a painful condition called feline stomatitis. Cats with stomatitis want to eat but are often in too much pain to do so, which can quickly affect their health and happiness.
At Animal Dental Specialists, we see many cats with this condition, and we understand how heartbreaking it can be for families to watch their pets struggle. The good news is that with advanced treatment from a veterinary dentist, most cats go on to live comfortable, pain-free lives.
This article will help you understand what feline stomatitis is, why it happens, and how veterinary dentists treat it to restore your cat’s quality of life.
What Exactly Is Feline Stomatitis?
Stomatitis is a severe inflammation of the mouth that goes beyond typical dental disease. While gingivitis affects the gums, stomatitis often extends throughout the mouth—along the cheeks, tongue, and even into the back of the throat.
The root of the problem lies in the cat’s immune system. For reasons not entirely understood, some cats’ immune systems overreact to the bacteria in dental plaque. Instead of tolerating these normal bacteria, the body launches a powerful inflammatory attack that leaves the mouth sore, swollen, and ulcerated.
Because this is an immune-mediated disease, even cats with otherwise good dental hygiene can develop stomatitis.
What Causes It?
The exact cause of feline stomatitis isn’t fully known, but several risk factors make a cat more likely to develop it:
- Immune system dysfunction – the body overreacts to normal oral bacteria.
- Viral infections – cats with calicivirus, herpesvirus, or FIV are at greater risk.
- Genetic predisposition – certain breeds, like Siamese and oriental breeds, may be more prone.
- Dental plaque and tartar – common triggers for the exaggerated immune response.
Signs to Watch For
Cats are very good at hiding pain, which means stomatitis can go unnoticed until it becomes severe. Signs include:
- Drooling, sometimes tinged with blood
- Strong, unpleasant breath
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Crying, yowling, or hissing when trying to eat
- Sudden aggression when their face is touched
- Weight loss or refusal to eat dry food
- Red, inflamed gums and oral tissues
If your cat is showing any of these signs, it’s important to schedule an exam as soon as possible.
How Veterinary Dentists Diagnose Stomatitis
While general veterinarians can often identify stomatitis, a board-certified veterinary dentist® has specialized training and tools to provide the most effective care.
At Animal Dental Specialists, diagnosis usually involves:
- A full oral exam under anesthesia (since awake cats are too uncomfortable).
- Dental radiographs and Cone Beam CT to check for hidden dental problems such as resorptive lesions or retained roots.
- Careful evaluation of the extent of inflammation.
This detailed assessment allows us to design the best treatment plan for your cat’s long-term comfort.
Feline Stomatitis Treatment Options
There isn’t a simple one-size-fits-all treatment for feline stomatitis, but veterinary dentists have several highly effective treatments that can dramatically improve your cat’s quality of life.
Medical Management
Medications are often used first, or in combination with other treatments:
- Pain medications to keep cats comfortable.
- Anti-inflammatories to calm the immune system’s overreaction.
- Diet changes to softer foods while the mouth heals.
While medical management can provide short-term relief, most cats need additional treatment for long-term success.
Dental Extractions – The Gold Standard
The most effective treatment for feline stomatitis is removing the teeth that harbor plaque and bacteria. Though it sounds extreme, cats adapt beautifully and are happier without the constant pain.
- Partial mouth extractions involve removing the premolars and molars.
- Full mouth extractions may be recommended if inflammation continues.
Most cats experience dramatic improvement after extractions, returning to normal eating habits and enjoying life again.
Life After Treatment
The transformation after treatment is often remarkable. Cats that once hid, acted grumpy, or stopped eating often rediscover their playful, affectionate personalities once their pain is gone.
Recovery after extractions is usually smooth, and most cats quickly adapt to eating without teeth. Soft foods can be offered, but many cats even return to eating dry kibble. Regular checkups with a veterinary dentist help ensure your cat stays healthy and comfortable long-term.
When to Call for Help
If your cat is drooling, refusing food, or showing signs of oral pain, don’t wait. Feline stomatitis is incredibly painful, but with expert care, cats can return to a normal, happy life.
At Animal Dental Specialists, we’re here to help. Our team has advanced training in diagnosing and treating stomatitis, and we’re committed to making sure your cat is comfortable and thriving again.
Call us today at 205-988-8654 to schedule a consultation and give your cat the relief they deserve.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (09/12/2025)