Grady spends his days patrolling his two-story house.
It’s a big job, and it seems to be taking a toll on him, because the 4-year-old feline is resting more than usual.
Raul and Sonya say Grady also has changed his eating habits and has begun to refuse dry food.
When he does eat, he chews very carefully. Sonya says it appears as if his mouth hurts. She has attempted to look in his mouth, but Grady won’t allow it. She did, however, notice Grady’s breath smells bad.
How many of you are thinking Grady might have a tooth problem? I am raising my hand. Dental disease is a distinct possibility. A tooth abscess can be painful. If Grady is reluctant to allow his veterinarian to examine his mouth, he may need sedation or anesthesia.
Another possibility could be severe gingivitis. We call it ulcerative gingivitis. This disease in its primary state can be painful. Primary gingivitis is primarily seen in cats. It is caused by the immune system sending inflammatory cells into the gum tissue. It is considered an autoimmune disease, meaning the cat’s immune system is attacking its own body, in this case, the gums. The result is highly inflamed and painful gums. When seen, the gums appear swollen and extremely bright red. It is almost as if you can see the pain.
There has been much research into this disease, but no cure. Medications can depress the immune response, which is causing the gingivitis, but it commonly will recur after treatment.
Dental disease and ulcerative gingivitis are but two possible causes for Grady’s mouth pain. There are others. Hopefully, his caretakers have already received a diagnosis from Grady’s veterinarian and he is on his way to recovery.
