This post is sponsored by Assisi Animal Health

Stomatitis is a frustrating and painful condition, a severe inflammation of the oral cavity in cats in which the affected cat essentially becomes allergic to her own teeth. The outward signs of this condition are red, inflamed, and often ulcerated gums, and this can be very painful for the cat. The exact cause of stomatitis is not known. The most commonly held theory is that stomatitis is caused by an abnormal reaction of the immune system. Some cats appear to be hypersensitive to their own plaque, and even small amounts will cause the immune system to mount an exxagerated inflammatory response by sending lymphocytic and plasma cells into the cats’ gums and oral tissues. For this reason, the condition is also referred to as lymphocytic plasmacytic gingivitis stomatitis.Continue Reading

This post is sponsored by Assisi Animal Health

11-year-old Doodie came into Sue Marshall’s life five years ago. Sue had just arrived in the US from Australia, and since her work schedule was quite fluid, she wanted to find a shelter where she could volunteer during her free time. There was a photo of a gorgeous Siamese cat on the front desk. The special needs cat had been at the shelter for five years after being returned several times because her multiple illnesses were too much for adopters. “She looked so sad,” said Sue, “so I asked if I could foster her. At first, the shelter declined, as they were wary of letting her go home with just anyone. Sue persisted and returned again and again. Finally, the shelter agreed to a short term foster arrangement, and Sue took her home.Continue Reading