FCGS refers to widespread inflammation in a cat’s mouth that includes not only the gum tissue (gingiva), but also includes the sensitive oral tissue (oral mucosa) that lines the inside of the cheeks, the back of the mouth, and occasionally the lips, tongue, and palate.  Cats with stomatitis experience severe pain when eating, which often causes them to drop the food, vocalize, and run away.  They are hungry, but it hurts too much to eat and typically they lose weight. Owners frequently report they hear their cat cry out when yawning. Affected cats often do not groom themselves, and often they hide, huddled up, and drooling.

The exact cause of FCGS is unknown, but it is believed to be an inappropriate immune-mediated response toward plaque. The oral cavity of humans, cats, and all other mammals is home to nearly a thousand different species of bacteria as well as yeasts, fungi, viruses, and many other types of microorganisms. The microorganisms attach to the gums, inner cheeks, tongue, and teeth For most of us, we tolerate the presence of all of those oral microorganisms without mounting an immune response. In cats with FCGS, it appears that the usual tolerance toward the bacteria that adhere to the teeth. Stomatitis is independent of other oral diseases in your pet's mouth. These may include periodontal disease or tooth resorption.  

The treatment of choice for stomatitis is surgical removal of all of the teeth. Removing the teeth minimizes the surfaces for bacteria to adhere to.

After surgery, there is typically a learning curve for patients to learn to eat without any teeth. This can take a few weeks for them to get completely comfortable with. Once fully healed, patients can eat soft food and hard kibble. Cats without any teeth adapt and do well after surgery. 

Full mouth extractions are curative in about 80% of patients. A small percentage of patients may need temporary or lifelong medication management to be pain-free.