This condition is caused by inflammation of the mouth and gumsand it is difficult to treat in cats. The red inflammed areas can extend around the teeth and down the throat.

It is difficult to treat but the recent acquisition of a vet laser system has allowed Tim Stead in York to offer the possibiltiy of success. The laser can be used in conjunction with descaling and polishing of the teeth, removal of some teeth( where necessary), antibiotics and pain killers. The laser has meant that it is possible to cure upto 90% of cases, but it can take several treatments. It used on the mouth to remove inflammed tissue three times at 4 to 6 week intervals, following the initial treatment your cat will need periodic laser treatment 2 to 4 times a year. Your cat needs to be tested for cat aids virus (FIV) and cat leukaemia (FeLV) as well as blood tests to exclude kidney disease.The mouth may need radiographs to check the status of the teeth roots