What is gingivitis in cats?
Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gum or gingiva, which surrounds the teeth. The disease can range from moderate to severe, and in extreme cases, cats with gingivitis may have problems eating and become very uncomfortable. To remedy the condition, a teeth cleaning under anesthesia is required. Plaque - a build-up of germs, debris, dead skin cells, mucus, and food - can accumulate on your cat's teeth and contribute to this dental issue (similar to how the same process occurs in people).
Signs of Gingivitis in Cats
The common signs of gingivitis in cats are:
- Red or swollen gums, especially around the area of the inner cheek
- Bad breath
- Difficulty eating or not eating at all
- Difficulty picking up toys or food
- Drooling
- Plaque build-up on the surface of the teeth
- Calculi/tartar
Causes of Gingivitis in Cats
The common causes of gingivitis in cats include:
- Poor or inconsistent dental care
- Old age
- Autoimmune diseases
- Soft food
- FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus)
- Crowded teeth
Diagnosis of Gingivitis in Cats
Since cats are so adept at hiding their pain, they may not show any signs of discomfort even if they are in severe oral pain. Even cats who are eating normally and are active can have significant dental diseases. Bringing your cat in for an annual routine exam and dental exam is essential to detecting and diagnosing dental disease and other health issues, as a vet can often identify signs of conditions while observing an animal and checking for symptoms listed above.
How to Treat Gingivitis in Cats
Gingivitis treatment eliminates accumulated plaque and dental calculus and removes destabilized and/or diseased teeth. Routine tooth cleanings and dental X-rays should be conducted under anesthetic to address any inflammatory dental disease.
For cats with teeth that are damaged beyond repair, a vet may surgically extract the affected tooth to relieve pain and prevent further dental problems. Your veterinarian may also recommend a tooth extraction if your adult cat's teeth are overcrowded or if they still have baby (deciduous) teeth that are not allowing their adult teeth to erupt.
The frequency of dental checkups will be determined by the degree of periodontal disease in your cat and any other oral health needs they may have. Your veterinarian will show you how to clean your cat's teeth, and you should schedule follow-up exams.
Maintaining Your Cat's Teeth
Cat-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste, available at pet supply stores, can help avoid gingivitis. Brushing should be introduced gradually and consistently so cats become accustomed to it.
Introduce your Cat to Toothbrushes & Toothpaste
Leave snacks on the counter near the toothpaste and toothbrush so cats can associate something positive with them. You can also place a dab of toothpaste for them to lick off your finger so they get accustomed to it.
Get Your Cat Used to You Touching their Mouth
Choose a dental treat your cat enjoys and place it on its canine teeth. As they become accustomed to it, start placing it deeper and deeper into their mouth, on their teeth. This gets them used to you touching their mouth and makes it easier for you to introduce the toothpaste.
Brushing
When your cat has become used to the toothbrush and toothpaste and you touching their mouth, brushing their teeth should be easier. Brush along the gum line for about 15 to 30 seconds, only on the outside of the teeth, and reward them with a treat afterward.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.