Feline chronic gingivostomatitis
Also known as Feline stomatitis, FCGS.
Very painful inflammation of the gums and mouth, out of proportion to the amount of tartar. The treatment that works best is extracting many or all of the teeth.
- System
- Mouth and teeth
- Is it urgent?
- Not usually
- Spreads to other cats
- No
- Spreads to people
- No
- Typical cost in Spain
- Full-mouth extractions with X-rays, €600–1,500.
Symptoms
- Drooling, sometimes with blood
- Strong bad breath
- Approaches food and then backs away
- Stops grooming
- Loses weight
- Very red gums at the back of the mouth
Causes
An exaggerated immune response to plaque, strongly associated with calicivirus and sometimes with FIV.
How it is diagnosed
Examination under sedation, dental X-rays and a biopsy if in doubt.
Treatment
Extraction of the back teeth or all of them, with pain relief and control of the inflammation.
No doses, on purpose: any medicine must be prescribed by your vet for your cat.
Prognosis
After extractions, most cats improve greatly or are cured; a minority need lifelong medical treatment.
Prevention
Up-to-date vaccinations and yearly mouth check-ups.
Frequently asked questions
Is feline chronic gingivostomatitis contagious?
No. It does not spread to other cats or to people.
Can feline chronic gingivostomatitis be cured?
After extractions, most cats improve greatly or are cured; a minority need lifelong medical treatment. Extraction of the back teeth or all of them, with pain relief and control of the inflammation.
How much does it cost to treat feline chronic gingivostomatitis?
As a guide for Spain in 2026: Full-mouth extractions with X-rays, €600–1,500. Prices vary a lot between clinics and cities, and out-of-hours emergencies cost more.
How can feline chronic gingivostomatitis be prevented?
Up-to-date vaccinations and yearly mouth check-ups.
More in mouth and teeth
Educational content from Michipedia. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a vet: if you have any doubt about your cat's health, ask. Costs are a guide for Spain in 2026.