If you’re wondering why your cat has black spots in its mouth, you’re not alone. There are many reasons for this pigmentation, including Periodontal disease, Genetic condition, or a genetic problem. Here are a few things you should know. In addition to the above reasons, you should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of these diseases. For more information, you can visit your vet.
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Lentigo simplex
While black spots in a cat’s mouth are a common occurrence, they aren’t necessarily indicative of an underlying medical condition. Lentigo simplex develops as a cat ages, but it can appear in a kitten as young as one year old. The spots typically start out small, with only one or two spots, and can become larger as the cat ages.
A cat’s lentigo spots may be irregular in shape, but they’re harmless. The spots on a cat’s mouth, nose, or paws are not indicative of lentigo, and are not cause for alarm. In fact, they may be a symptom of a different condition, such as an allergy. If raised spots are present, however, you should see a veterinarian for further treatment.
In some cats, these spots may merge to form larger areas of black pigmentation. In humans, lentigo is not connected to exposure to sunlight, and a biopsy with a fine needle will be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. In most cases, this is an entirely cosmetic problem, and no medical treatment is needed. Nonetheless, you should consult a veterinarian if you notice any changes in your cat’s mouth or nose.
Periodontal disease
There are several factors that contribute to periodontal disease in cats, but the most common causes are bacterial infections and early stages of inflammation. This disease begins with plaque, which is a buildup of bacteria and food particles along the gum line. This buildup eventually combines with saliva and minerals and irritates the gums, causing irritation and inflammation. If left untreated, periodontal disease in cats can lead to tooth loss.
To diagnose periodontal disease in cats, your vet will first examine your cat’s mouth to look for red gums. He will press them gently to see if any bleeding occurs. If the blood flow is inflamed, the vet will likely take full dental x-rays of the entire mouth under general anesthesia. This will reveal the underlying dental structures have lost definition and normal density. In severe cases, your cat may even have bone loss.
Genetic condition
If you’ve ever wondered why your cat has black spots in his or her mouth, you’re not alone. A common genetic condition known as lentigo causes an overproduction of melanin, a substance found in the skin and tissues of the mouth. This results in black or brown spots that appear on the cat’s face. This condition affects all breeds, and it can affect any color of cat. Most often, the disease occurs in middle-aged and older cats, but it can also affect kittens as young as one year.
Interestingly, the genetic condition lentigo is associated with increased sun exposure, although this does not correspond to an increase in lentigo in cats. This condition is caused by an overproduction of melanin in the skin cells, called melanocytes. It is thought that the gene responsible for orange coat color in cats is unstable and reverts to its natural dark color over time.
Melanoma
There are several symptoms that your cat may exhibit if he or she has a black spot in the mouth. Your cat may scratch at the tumor, causing discomfort. Additionally, your cat may show signs of grouchiness and lose weight. If your cat experiences any of these symptoms, you should consult with your veterinarian. If you suspect your cat has a melanoma, you can seek treatment at a veterinary clinic.
Symptoms of melanoma in your cat include iris changes and raised spots. Cats with certain colors of fur are more likely to develop the disease. If the spots are not cancerous, they may be caused by lentigo or another condition. In such cases, your vet will perform a biopsy to rule out any underlying disease. If the black spot is cancerous, the condition can cause serious breathing problems and weight loss.