Cat Epulis Tumors

This benign Cat Tumors is considered to be somewhat rare in cats. It is basically a tumor of the mouth. The usual location is along the gum line closest to the canine teeth or the incisors. This is a mass that originates in the tissue holding the cat’s teeth to the bones in the jaw. It is also known as a gum boil.

There are three distinct types of epulis tumors:

1. Fibramatous: this is one that is built from the tough and fibrous tissue

2. Ossifying: this type contains bone cells as well as fibrous tissue. They have the capability of becoming malignant.

3. Acanthomatous is more invasive. It will grow into the surrounding normal bone and destroy it. It is still benign.
Epulis occur in senior cats. There is no propensity depending on sex of the cat.

Signs and Symptoms

Initially the cat owner will observe a growth that is visible between their cat’s teeth. It is generally the same color as the normal gum tissue but has a much smoother surface. It is possible to see one that is attached to the gum with a stalk type structure. As it enlarges, you will notice increased Cat Drooling and your cat may have increasing difficulty eating. Cat Loss of Appetite is also quite common. Your cat will also have Cat Bad Breath that has become malodorous and there can be some bleeding from the area. If the tumor enlarges too much it can impair your cat’s ability to breathe. This type of tumor also has the ability to separate the cat’s teeth.

Diagnosis

Although observation is the primary step in identification by your vet, a biopsy is the only way to accurately diagnose it. It is necessary to distinguish the epulis from other tumors that may be malignant, or other types of benign tumors.

Treatment Options

The only way to treat an epulis is to surgically remove it. Your vet will remove the obvious growth as well as a sizable amount of seemingly healthy surrounding tissue. This will ensure that all of the epulis is removed and hopefully not return. If there is any portion remaining, it can grow again. It is also usual to remove the surrounding teeth. If the epulides are large, Cat Radiation Therapy may be in order.

Prognosis

The goal is to remove the tumor when it is small. If it is completely removed the prognosis is good. The longer you take to have it removed, the more likely it is that your cat will have more serious complications in the future. There are types that are more difficult to remove due to the increased difficulty in their removal.

There have also been rare instances where radiation has ultimately resulted in the tumor becoming malignant.

Home Care

When your cat comes home, there are some treatment steps that only you can take. Initially your vet will prescribe antibiotics and pain medication. A topical type of medication may be ordered. This is one that is placed directly on the surgical area. Whatever the type of medication, it is the responsibility of the cat’s owner to administer it as it is ordered by the vet.

Chances are your cat will not have a huge appetite after surgery in the mouth. You may have to switch to a much softer diet than you have fed your cat in the past. Good nutrition leads to faster healing. You should also consider giving your cat Cat Cancer Dietary Supplements and follow Cat Palliative Cancer Care guidelines for a swift recovery.

Additional Cat Cancer Pages

Cat Cancer | Cat Skin Cancer | Cat Lung Cancer | Cat Pancreatic Cancer | Cat Cancer Prevention | Cat Cancer Diagnosis | Cat Gastric Cancer | Cat Lymphoma Cancer | Cat Squamous Cell Carcinoma | Cat Mouth Cancer | Cat Brain Tumor | Cat Palliative Cancer Care