THE DENTAL CARE SERIES By Jan Bellows D.V.M. DipAVDC All Pets Dental Clinic

What is FGS?

Feline gingivostomatitis (FGS) is a severe oral disease that affects some cats where the body becomes allergic to plaque around the teeth. The allergic response appears as marked inflammation at the area where the tooth meets the gum line.

What causes FGS?

The specific cause of FGS is unknown. It is not related to feline leukemia virus, feline immunodeficiency virus, sex, spaying or neutering, or diet.

What are the signs of FGS?

Severe inflammation around the teeth exists with FGS. In many cases there are also inflammatory lesions in the back of the throat (stomatitis). Affected cats may have difficulty chewing hard food. Oral pain may cause a decrease in self grooming, resulting in a scruffy hair coat.

How is FGS diagnosed?

An examination usually reveals inflammation completely surrounding the teeth. The maxillary and mandibular cheek teeth are most commonly affected. In severe cases, the canines and incisors are also involved. In 20% of affected cats, the pharynx appears cobblestone red.

How is FGS treated?

There are many options that may give short-term response including antibiotics, steroids, laser therapy, as well as interferon and other immune modulators. Extraction of the teeth behind the canines will resolve between 60% to 80% of the stomatitis cases.

What is the prognosis for FGS?

With extraction of the teeth, the prognosis is good to excellent.

Dr. Jan Bellows is a board-certified veterinary dentist. His office, Hometown Animal Hospital and Dental Clinic, is located at 17100 Royal Palm Boulevard in Weston, Florida. He can be reached for consultations at 954-349-5800.

Date Published: 6/17/2002 5:42:00 PM
Date Reviewed/Revised: 04/13/2007