Introduction

Oral papillomas, commonly known as canine oral warts, are a relatively common condition seen in dogs, particularly in the young and occasionally in those with a compromised immune system. Caused by the canine papillomavirus, these warts appear primarily in and around the dog's mouth. They can grow quickly, and there can be anywhere from one to many of them at one time, so they can be concerning for pet owners, but understanding the nature of these growths can provide reassurance and guide towards effective management strategies.

What are Oral Papillomas?

Oral papillomas are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that arise from the epithelial tissue. They are caused by various strains of the canine papillomavirus. And they typically present as small, cauliflower-like growths on the lips, gums, tongue, or throat. While most common in puppies and young dogs due to their developing immune systems, oral papillomas can occur in dogs of any age.

Causes and Transmission

The canine papillomavirus is highly contagious and is transmitted through direct contact with infected dogs or contaminated objects, such as toys, food bowls, and bedding. The virus can also spread in environments where dogs congregate, like parks, kennels, and day care facilities. After exposure, it can take from 1 to 2 months for warts to develop, reflecting the incubation period of the virus. Exposure to the virus does not guarantee that the dog will develop warts though, a high percentage of dogs will never develop these.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The most obvious sign of oral papillomas is the appearance of one or more warty growths within the dog's mouth. These growths are typically grayish-white or flesh-colored and have an irregular, cauliflower-like surface. In most cases, oral papillomas are not painful. Rarely, if they become large or numerous, they can interfere with eating, drinking, or, in extremely severe cases, breathing.

Diagnosis is usually based on the physical appearance of the growths. In some cases, particularly if a growth does not look typical or if there is concern about malignancy, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Treatment and Management

For the majority of dogs, no treatment is required. The dog's immune system will clear the virus on its own within 2 to 3 months. However, in cases where the growths are causing significant discomfort, or if there is a concern about secondary infections or an underlying condition, intervention may be necessary.

Treatment options can include surgical laser removal, or cryotherapy (freezing) to remove the warts. If there is a concern for an underlying condition, we will commonly start with more diagnostics including blood tests and potentially biopsies or other advanced testing to ensure we develop the most effective treatment plan. Additionally, for dogs with a weakened immune system, or for those cases where warts persist, immune-modulating medications may be prescribed to help the body fight off the virus.

Prevention

Preventing oral papillomas is incredibly challenging due to the highly contagious nature of the virus. Limiting your dog's exposure to infected dogs and maintaining good hygiene practices, including regular cleaning of toys and bedding, can help reduce the risk. Additionally, keeping your dog's immune system strong through proper nutrition and regular veterinary care is crucial for overall health and resilience against infections.

Conclusion

Ultimately oral papillomas in dogs are typically a self-limiting condition that poses more of a cosmetic concern than a serious health threat. Understanding the nature of these growths and recognizing that they usually resolve on their own can help alleviate concerns. However, if your dog is showing signs of discomfort or if the warts persist beyond a few months, seeking veterinary advice is recommended to explore treatment options and ensure your pet's comfort and well-being.

At Yarmouth Veterinary Center, we believe in the importance of comprehensive care and support for our patients and their families. If you have any concerns about your dog's health, including the presence of oral papillomas, please don't hesitate to contact us for advice and assistance.