Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Feline Gingivostomatitis Advanced

Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is an extremely painful immune-mediated condition - full mouth extraction provides definitive relief for most cats.

Key Facts

FCGS affects approximately 0.7% of cats and causes severe oral pain
Characteristic lesion patterns include caudal stomatitis extending beyond the gingiva
Medical management with steroids and antibiotics provides temporary relief only
Full mouth extraction achieves complete clinical remission in 60-80% of cases
Partial extraction (premolars and molars) achieves remission in an additional 10-15%

Welfare Considerations

FCGS causes severe, chronic oral pain that dramatically impairs quality of life. Full mouth extraction, while radical, provides the best chance of complete, lasting pain relief. The welfare case for surgical intervention is compelling when medical management fails.

What You Can Do

Seek specialist dental assessment for any cat with suspected gingivostomatitis
Do not delay referral for surgical consultation when medical management fails
Provide appropriate post-operative pain management and soft food after extraction