Content

• Steps
• Part 1 of 3: Ulcer Symptoms
• Part 2 of 3: Diagnosing ulcers
• Part 3 of 3: Treating mouth ulcers
• Tips

Mouth ulcers in cats can occur for a number of reasons, from plaque buildup to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). Oral ulcers usually present as small open sores in the mouth that can bleed and cause severe pain, especially if left untreated. If you notice sores or other symptoms in your cat's mouth that may indicate they are present, seek immediate help from your veterinarian so that he can diagnose and prescribe a course of treatment.

Steps

Part 1 of 3: Ulcer Symptoms

1. 1 Find open sores in your mouth. Ulcers are usually the most obvious symptoms of a number of oral problems, including gingivostomatitis, lymphoplasmacytic stomatitis, and chronic recurrent aphthous stomatitis.Examine the gums and cheeks for tiny or small round or elongated wounds that may bleed and show underlying tissue underneath.
   • Ulcers can appear in different parts of the mouth. Use your finger to gently lift the cat's cheek and check its gums, inner cheek, tongue, and palate. Be sure to look at the edges of your tongue and below it.
2. 2 Check for other oral symptoms. If you are unable to determine with certainty for mouth ulcers, look for other symptoms such as bad breath, swollen gums, excessive salivation, thick and viscous saliva, loss of appetite, and difficulty eating. Examine your cat's mouth carefully and monitor its eating habits for other symptoms of ulcers.
   • Check your cat's teeth and gum edges regularly. Swelling around a tooth, gum inflammation, and bleeding near the gum line may indicate an ulcer or more serious oral health problems.
3. 3 Beware of the symptoms of feline calicivirus. Ulcers can be a symptom of more serious health problems, such as feline calicivirus (upper respiratory tract infection), which is common in cats. If you notice ulcers in your cat, look for other symptoms of feline calicivirus, such as sneezing, nasal congestion, inflammation around the eyes, and discharge from the eyes and nose.
   • If you experience symptoms of feline calicivirus in your cat, we recommend that you seek immediate veterinary assistance. Tell him exactly what symptoms your pet is experiencing and when they first appeared.
   • Your veterinarian will either ask you to bring your cat to your appointment or tell you how to treat the condition at home. Follow your veterinarian's directions carefully.

Part 2 of 3: Diagnosing ulcers

1. 1 Make an appointment for an oral examination. If you notice symptoms of sores or open sores in your cat's mouth, make an appointment with your veterinarian to have your pet's oral cavity examined. The veterinarian will not only tell you if the cat has ulcers, but will also be able to name the reason for their occurrence.
   • If the veterinarian finds ulcers, they may suggest that you get an X-ray to check the cat's jaw for other lesions.
   • Report any symptoms you see to your veterinarian, even those not directly related to wounds, swelling, or bleeding in the mouth. This will help the doctor pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.
2. 2 Get a diagnostic test. Depending on how the oral examination proceeds, the doctor may take blood and urine samples from the cat to determine the cause of the ulcers. Let the doctor check with your pet as this will allow him to determine the exact cause of the ulcers and develop a more appropriate course of treatment.
   • Urinalysis is usually painless for cats, and donating blood causes only short-term discomfort.
   • Ulcers can be a symptom of other, more serious infections, illnesses and health problems, including chronic kidney disease, feline viral rhinotracheitis, and feline immunodeficiency virus. A correct diagnosis is essential in order for the cat to be given the right treatment and for it to recover.
3. 3 Learn about treatments. If your veterinarian diagnoses mouth ulcers or finds another condition causing ulcers, ask them about possible treatments. Ask him if your cat needs surgery or other emergency treatment and how long you will need to look after him.
   • How ulcers are treated will depend entirely on the underlying cause. Follow the instructions of the veterinarian and, if necessary, go to all appointments with him and other specialists.
   • The sores themselves are likely to be symptomatic of treatment with mouthwash and / or pain relievers. To prevent new ulcers from developing, it is important to address the root cause of their appearance.

Part 3 of 3: Treating mouth ulcers

1. 1 Treat the infection. If you notice discharge, an unpleasant odor, or red and painful areas around your pet's gums, it could be contaminated with the sores. Consult your veterinarian immediately and ask him for a prescription for an antimicrobial or antibiotic.
   • Treatment can be carried out by applying a topical preparation or by taking an oral agent. Be sure to read the instructions for use and strictly adhere to all directions.
2. 2 Brush your cat's teeth. Brush your cat's teeth regularly twice a day to remove plaque and prevent the disease from worsening, leading to ulcers. Take a silicone or soft-bristled brush, as well as a paste made for cats, and brush your pet's teeth with them regularly.
   • Dampen the brush and dab some toothpaste on it. Then, gently brush your cat's teeth, paying particular attention to the area near the gums.
   • Cat toothbrushes and toothpaste can be purchased at most pet stores or ordered online.
3. 3 Go to your veterinarian for regular cleanings. In addition to brushing your teeth, try making an appointment with your veterinarian for regular oral cleaning. Ask your doctor how often your cat needs to have her teeth professionally cleaned and try to stick to that schedule.
   • With regular brushings, the doctor will also be able to remove the affected tooth, which in turn will help prevent the spread or worsening of ulcers.

Tips

• If you think your cat is in pain from sores, ask your doctor about how to relieve the pain. To do this, your veterinarian may write a prescription for pain relievers.
• If your cat has a hard time eating, switch to soft foods that are easier to chew.