Diagnosis

As there are no diagnostic tests available, a diagnosis is reached by recognition of the clinical signs and a history consistent with feline orofacial pain syndrome. 

If FOPS is suspected, a full diagnostic work up including routine haematology and biochemistry should be performed to find any predisposing cause or rule out underlying disease.

It is important that dental radiography be performed as part of this work-up as dental resorptive lesions can be associated with the syndrome². Should dental disease be found, this is best treated by a skilled veterinarian or a veterinary dentist as dental treatment could potentially worsen the problem².

As psychological factors may be a component in some cats, the owner should be questioned about social and environmental stressors and appropriate management instituted².