Oral ulcers in cats can develop from numerous causes, ranging from plaque buildup to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). They typically manifest as small open sores on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, which can cause bleeding and pain, especially if left untreated. If you notice that your little friend is suffering from it or notice other symptoms that make you think he may have developed ulcers, contact your vet immediately so they can diagnose the underlying cause and initiate therapy.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Check for Symptoms
Step 1. Pay attention to the presence of open wounds in the mouth
Ulcers are typically the most visible symptoms of various oral problems, including gingivostomatitis, caudal stomatitis, and chronic ulcerative periodontal stomatitis. Check the gums and the inside of the cheeks for small to medium rounded or oval lesions that may also bleed and expose underlying tissue.
Ulcers can form in different places in the mouth; use a finger to press on the cat's cheek and check the gums, inner cheek area, tongue and palate; be sure to check the edges and underside of the tongue as well
Step 2. Monitor for other symptoms in your mouth
If you can't tell for sure if your cat has an ulcer, check for other possible symptoms such as bad breath, swollen gums, excessive drooling, thick, stringy saliva, loss of appetite, and difficulty eating. carefully observe the entire mouth area and pay attention to the cat's eating habits for other clues.
Regularly and carefully inspect your teeth and gum line; if you notice swelling around a tooth, inflammation of the gums and bleeding, know that these are all signs that could indicate an ulcer or even more serious problem
Step 3. Check for symptoms of calicivirosis
Ulcers can be a symptom of this serious condition, which is an upper respiratory infection caused by feline calicivirus, which is quite common in cats. If you notice sores in your feline friend's mouth, take note of other possible signs of this disease, such as sneezing, nasal congestion, eye inflammation, and discharge from the eyes and nose.
- If you notice symptoms of this infection, contact your vet right away; Tell him about the signs you see in your cat and when they started showing up.
- The doctor may ask you to take the animal to his or her clinic for examination or may give you instructions on how to take care of it at home; follow his advice carefully.
Part 2 of 3: Getting a Veterinary Diagnosis
Step 1. Make an appointment for an oral exam
If you notice ulcers or open wounds in your cat's mouth, make an appointment with your vet for a visit. he will not only be able to tell you if it is actually ulcers, but will also be able to identify the cause.
- If they experience these sores, they will likely ask your permission to take an x-ray and determine if there is any other damage to the jaw.
- Tell your doctor about any symptoms you have experienced, including any that are not directly associated with injury, swelling, or bleeding in the mouth; this way you can help him make a more accurate diagnosis of any underlying conditions your cat is suffering from.
Step 2. Get your cat for diagnostic tests
Depending on the problems your vet encounters during the physical exam, it may be necessary to take a blood or urine sample to determine the exact cause of the lesions and define the most appropriate therapy accordingly.
- Urine testing is generally not painful, while blood testing only causes short-term discomfort.
- Ulcers can be a symptom of some other, more serious infection, disease, or health problem, such as chronic kidney disease, feline viral rhinopneumonia (FVR), and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). An appropriate diagnosis must be made to find the right treatments and ensure the animal's health.
Step 3. Learn about various treatment options
If your vet diagnoses mouth sores or a disease that causes them, ask him specific questions about the appropriate treatments for your feline friend to heal. You can ask him directly "Does the cat need any surgical procedure or other special care?" and "What long-term care will I need to give him?".
- The type of therapy varies widely according to the cause of the disorder; strictly follow your vet's recommendations and make an appointment with him and a specialist if necessary.
- The symptoms of the ulcers themselves are typically treated with mouthwashes and / or pain relievers, while the underlying causes need different and more thorough treatment to prevent other oral lesions from forming.
Part 3 of 3: Caring for Ulcers
Step 1. Treat any infections
If you notice any discharge, bad odor, or red, painful areas near the gums, the ulcers could be infected. discuss using prescription antibiotic or antimicrobial medications immediately with your veterinarian.
Treatment could be topical or systemic. Read the instructions on the leaflet carefully and follow them to the letter regarding the dosage and method of administration
Step 2. Clean the cat's teeth
Wash them regularly, up to twice a day, to prevent plaque from building up and ulcers from getting worse. Opt for a soft-bristled or silicone toothbrush paired with a cat-specific toothpaste and brush your kitty's teeth regularly.
- Wet the toothbrush and apply a small amount of toothpaste; use it to gently massage your cat's teeth, paying particular attention to the gum line.
- You can buy these tools at most pet stores and even online.
Step 3. Make appointments at regular intervals for professional teeth cleaning
In addition to brushing your cat's teeth, set up a regular visiting routine at the veterinary dentist. Talk to your doctor about how often to get this treatment and stick to the schedule.
These regular procedures allow the vet to extract diseased teeth while avoiding the spread or worsening of ulcers
Advice
- If you are concerned that your cat is suffering from the injuries, ask your vet to establish a pain reliever treatment that involves the use of prescription medications.
- If your cat is having difficulty eating, offer soft food that doesn't require long chewing.
