Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, and it’s one of the most common health problems in cats. It’s often the first stage of dental disease. Caught early, it can usually be treated and even reversed, but left untreated, it can lead to painful periodontal disease and tooth loss.
What Causes Gingivitis?
Gingivitis usually starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth along the gumline. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, and the bacteria irritate and inflame the gums. Other factors include:
- lack of dental care;
- age: dental disease becomes more common as cats get older;
- crowded or misaligned teeth;
- viral infections, such as feline calicivirus, FIV and FeLV;
- immune system problems;
- other illnesses, such as kidney disease and diabetes.
In some cats, especially some young cats and certain breeds, the gums can become very inflamed even with little tartar (“juvenile gingivitis”).
Signs of Gingivitis
- a red or dark pink line along the gums where they meet the teeth;
- swollen gums;
- gums that bleed easily, for example when your cat chews;
- bad breath (read more about bad breath in cats);
- plaque or brown tartar on the teeth;
- drooling (read more about drooling in cats);
- difficulty eating, dropping food, chewing on one side or preferring soft food;
- pawing at the mouth;
- a reduced appetite.
Cats are very good at hiding pain, and many cats keep eating even when their mouth hurts. Check your cat’s mouth regularly, and see your vet if you notice any of these signs.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your vet will examine your cat’s mouth. A complete dental assessment usually needs to be done under general anesthesia, with dental X-rays, because much of the disease can be hidden below the gumline. Depending on what’s found, treatment may include:
- a professional dental cleaning (scaling and polishing) under anesthesia, to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline;
- treatment or removal of damaged or painful teeth;
- pain relief and, if needed, other medications;
- a home dental care plan.
Don’t try to scrape tartar off your cat’s teeth yourself, and don’t use human toothpaste, mouthwash, baking soda or home remedies such as oils or herbal rinses. “Anesthesia-free” dental cleanings aren’t recommended by veterinary dental specialists, because they don’t clean below the gumline and can’t detect hidden problems.
How to Prevent Gingivitis
- Brush your cat’s teeth, ideally daily or at least several times a week, with a soft pet toothbrush or finger brush and toothpaste made for cats. Start slowly and make it rewarding.
- Use dental treats, diets or water additives with the VOHC seal of approval.
- Take your cat for a dental check at least once a year, and follow your vet’s advice about professional cleanings.
- Keep your cat’s vaccinations up to date.
Read more: how many teeth cats have, and how to care for them.
