# Mouth Ulcers in Cats UK — Quick answer

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/mouth-ulcers-in-cats-uk): Mouth Ulcers in Cats UK — Quick answer. Mouth ulcers are painful and often stop cats eating. Drooling, bad breath, pawing at the mouth and food dropping from the jaw are common signs. Because cats can develop fatty liver disease when they stop eating, painful mouths need prompt vet assessment — not a wait-and-see approach.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/mouth-ulcers-in-cats-uk): Mouth Ulcers in Cats UK — What mouth ulcers look like. According to the PDSA and International Cat Care, mouth ulcers are sore, red or yellow areas on the gums, tongue, palate or lips. Owners may not see ulcers directly — cats often hide mouth pain — but behaviour changes are telling: - Drooling or wet chin fur — see Cat drooling excessively - Bad breath (halitosis) - Pawing at the mouth or shaking the head - Dropping food or chewing on one side only - Not eating or preferring soft food — see Cat not eating - Weight loss over days to weeks - Hiding or aggression when the face is touched Any cat that has not eaten for 24 hours needs veterinary attention the same day.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/mouth-ulcers-in-cats-uk): Mouth Ulcers in Cats UK — Common causes in UK cats. Dental disease Tartar, gingivitis and tooth root abscesses are the most common cause of oral pain in adult cats. Bacteria under the gumline inflame tissue and create painful lesions. Regular Cat dental care UK reduces risk. ### Feline calicivirus (FCV) FCV is a common upper respiratory virus in multi-cat households and rescue cats. Some strains cause painful tongue and gum ulcers alongside sneezing and eye discharge. Vaccination reduces severity but does not prevent all strains — see Cat vaccination schedule UK. ### Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) FCGS is severe inflammation of the gums and back of the mouth. Affected cats may have widespread ulcers and extreme pain. Diagnosis and treatment often need a vet with dental expertise; extraction of affected teeth is sometimes required. ### Kidney disease and other illness Advanced Kidney disease in cats can cause uremic stomatitis — ulcers linked to toxin build-up. Other systemic diseases may also affect the mouth; blood tests help rule these in or out. ### Burns and toxins Chewing lilies, household cleaners, or hot food can burn the mouth. Never use human mouth gels or aspirin products on cats — they are toxic.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/mouth-ulcers-in-cats-uk): Mouth Ulcers in Cats UK — When to see your vet. Contact your vet today if: - Your cat has not eaten for 24 hours - There is blood in saliva or drool - Your cat is lethargic or dehydrated - You see ulcers, swollen gums or a broken tooth - A kitten or senior cat is affected

Source: https://pethealth.org.uk/health/mouth-ulcers-in-cats-uk