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What are the Symptoms of Canine Stomatitis?

When we interact closely with dogs, their cute looks and cheerful barks can always make us forget all our troubles. However, dogs can also be afflicted by various diseases, and stomatitis is a common yet easily overlooked one.

When we interact closely with dogs, their cute looks and cheerful barks can always make us forget all our troubles. However, dogs can also be afflicted by various diseases, and stomatitis is a common yet easily overlooked one. Canine stomatitis not only causes dogs pain and discomfort but may also affect their diet and health. As owners, it is crucial to understand the symptoms of canine stomatitis, as this helps us detect problems promptly and provide treatment and care for our dogs as early as possible.

To understand the symptoms of canine stomatitis, let's first look at its causes. Canine stomatitis is an inflammation of the oral mucosa and deeper tissues, which can be triggered by multiple factors. Firstly, poor oral hygiene is one of the important causes of stomatitis. If a dog doesn't receive proper oral cleaning for a long time, food residues will accumulate in the mouth, fostering the growth of a large number of bacteria, thus leading to inflammation. Secondly, mechanical injuries can also induce stomatitis. While playing or eating, dogs may accidentally scratch their oral mucosa with sharp objects like bone fragments or fish bones. Once these wounds get infected, inflammation is likely to occur. Additionally, some systemic diseases such as diabetes and vitamin deficiency can reduce a dog's immunity, making them more prone to stomatitis.

The symptoms of canine stomatitis are mainly manifested in two aspects: local oral symptoms and systemic symptoms. The local oral symptoms are the most prominent. When a dog has stomatitis, the most noticeable symptom for owners is bad breath. Due to the massive proliferation of bacteria in the oral cavity, which decompose food residues and necrotic tissues, an unpleasant odor is generated, making the dog's breath extremely pungent. This bad breath not only affects our close interaction with the dog but is also an important sign that there is a problem with the dog's oral health.

By carefully observing the dog's mouth, we can find obvious changes in the gums. Under normal circumstances, a dog's gums should be pink and firm in texture. But for dogs with stomatitis, the gums become red and swollen, redder than normal, and their texture turns soft. Gently touching the gums may cause bleeding, and the dog will show signs of pain, such as dodging or whining. As the condition progresses, ulcers and erosions may appear on the gums, forming small sores. These sores cause the dog great pain and seriously affect its eating and chewing.

The dog's oral mucosa is also affected by the inflammation. The mucosa may become congested and swollen, with a rough surface. In some dogs, blisters or pustules may appear on the oral mucosa. After these blisters or pustules burst, ulcerated surfaces are formed, further intensifying the dog's pain. Besides, the dog's tongue may also show abnormalities. The surface of the tongue may become red, coated, or even ulcerated.

Apart from the local oral symptoms, canine stomatitis may also cause some systemic symptoms. Due to the oral pain, dogs may experience a decreased appetite or even anorexia. They may lose interest in their usual favorite foods, eat cautiously, or simply refuse to eat. This leads to weight loss, and the dog gradually becomes emaciated. Moreover, the pain and discomfort caused by stomatitis can make the dog's mental state deteriorate. They become listless, reluctant to move, and lose their former curiosity and enthusiasm for the surrounding things.

Some dogs may also exhibit excessive salivation, with the amount of saliva significantly increasing compared to normal. This is because the inflammation in the oral cavity stimulates the salivary glands, resulting in increased saliva secretion. At the same time, dogs may frequently scratch their mouths with their paws, trying to relieve the pain and itching in the oral cavity. In more severe cases, dogs may develop a fever, with an elevated body temperature and rapid breathing. This indicates that the dog's body is fighting the inflammation, and we need to take timely treatment measures.

The symptoms of canine stomatitis are diverse, from local oral symptoms like bad breath, red and swollen gums, and mucosal ulcers to systemic symptoms such as decreased appetite and listlessness. Each symptom is a reminder that there is a problem with the dog's health. As owners, we should always pay attention to our dogs' oral health, regularly check their oral conditions. Once we notice the above - mentioned symptoms, we should take the dog to the pet hospital for examination and treatment promptly. Early detection and treatment can effectively control the development of the condition, relieve the dog's pain, and help them recover their health as soon as possible, so that they can continue to accompany us through wonderful times. Let's use our love and care to safeguard every aspect of our dogs' health.

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