Among the many dental issues cats face, feline gingivitis is one of the most concerning but manageable diseases. It’s the inflammation of the gums, often signaling the beginning of periodontal disease if left untreated.

Feline gingivitis begins with simple plaque buildup, a sticky film that harbors bacteria and forms on the teeth of cats. When plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, leading to gum irritation and inflammation. Luckily, gingivitis in cats can be easily reversed once given early treatment. 

Cats are prone to gingivitis for a few reasons. For one, their diet and natural behaviors don’t always promote oral cleanliness. Many cats also develop dental issues due to genetics or immune system factors. 

Additionally, feline-specific viruses like feline leukemia virus or feline immunodeficiency virus can weaken their ability to fight off infections, making gum disease more likely.

Causes of Gingivitis in Cats

Gingivitis doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of several contributing factors, some of which are preventable with proper care. Here are some of the common causes of gingivitis in cats: 

Plaque and Tartar Buildup

The most common cause of gingivitis in cats is the accumulation of plaque on their teeth. When your cat’s plaque is not removed regularly, it will harden into tartar. Once it does, it causes irritation and inflammation to the gums.

Bacterial Infections

The buildup of bacteria in the mouth is a big factor in gum disease. While some bacteria are harmless, others can thrive in plaque and tartar, causing gum irritation and redness. If this goes unchecked, the bacteria can affect the structures supporting your cat’s teeth and lead to tooth loss.

Viral Infections

Certain feline viruses, like feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus, can weaken a cat’s immune system, making it harder for their body to fight off gum disease. Cats with these conditions are at higher risk of developing gingivitis.

Immune System Disorders

Feline autoimmune diseases, where the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, can contribute to gingivitis. In such cases, inflammation occurs more easily and may be harder to manage.

Tooth Resorption and Malocclusion

Structural issues in a cat’s mouth, such as tooth resorption or malocclusion, can create spaces where food particles can accumulate. These gaps can have plaque buildup over time, which increases the amount of bacteria present in your cat’s teeth, causing gingivitis.

Dietary Factors

Soft or wet cat food tends to stick to teeth more than dry kibble, which can contribute to plaque buildup. While wet cat food is great for hydration and texture, it’s always important to observe regular dental care to prevent feline gingivitis over time.

Age and Genetics

Older cats and certain breeds are more predisposed to dental issues, including gingivitis. For example, breeds like Persians and Chinchillas are more prone to gingivitis solely because of their short noses and small mouths. As for age, the older cats get, the more likely they are to have an accumulation of plaque, leading to gingivitis. 

Symptoms of Gingivitis in Cats

Spotting the signs of gingivitis in cats early can make all the difference in preventing the condition from worsening. Cats are known for hiding discomfort, so it’s important to take notes of even the most subtle signs. Here are the symptoms of gingivitis in cats: 

Red and Swollen Gums

One of the clearest symptoms of feline gingivitis is the noticeable redness or swelling of the gums. This can usually be seen on the base of the cat’s teeth. Healthy cat gums are typically a pale pink, so any deviation can be a red flag.

Additionally, bleeding can be a possibility in severe cases. You can usually find bleeding in areas where the cat’s teeth meet the gums. 

Bad Breath

While cats aren’t known for having minty-fresh breath, a foul or unusually strong odor can indicate gum inflammation or bacterial buildup in the mouth. 

Drooling

Excessive drooling or saliva that appears thick or sticky may signal gum irritation or discomfort caused by gingivitis. 

Difficulty Eating

If your cat seems reluctant to eat or chews on one side frequently, it may be a sign of gingivitis. Gingivitis in cats causes pain and swelling, which makes it hard for cats to eat. Additionally, they might also prefer not to eat to avoid any pain and discomfort.

Behavioral Changes

Cats with gingivitis may become irritable, avoid being touched around the mouth, or groom less frequently due to discomfort. Reduced grooming can lead to a matted or unkempt coat. You might also notice them wanting to just lie down and avoid anyone in the process. 

Pawing at the Mouth

Repeated pawing at the face or mouth can be a sign that something isn’t right. This kind of behavior often indicates that something is wrong and your cat is feeling some sort of discomfort in the mouth.

Diagnosing Gingivitis in Cats

Diagnosing gingivitis in cats requires a detailed evaluation by our pet dentists. While symptoms like swollen gums are clear signs, it’s important to have a thorough assessment of your cat’s gingivitis. Here’s how we do it:

Veterinary Oral Examination

During a checkup, our vets will carefully inspect your cat’s mouth for signs of inflammation, redness, and tartar buildup. This initial inspection will give us an idea of how far the gingivitis issue is in your cat.

Additionally, this examination is often accompanied by dental cleaning. This involves using anesthesia and specialized tools to not only have a closer look but also to provide professional cleaning services for your cat’s teeth.

Dental X-rays

For a clearer understanding of your cat’s gingivitis, dental X-rays may be recommended. These can reveal issues beneath the gum line, such as bone loss, tooth resorption, or hidden infections that are not visible to the eyes.

Blood Tests

If your cat’s gingivitis is suspected to be linked to a health condition, such as FeLV or FIV, blood tests may be performed to confirm the presence of these diseases. Bloodwork can also assess your cat’s overall health before any dental procedures.

Treatment for Gingivitis in Cats

Treating gingivitis in cats uses a mix of expert vet care and maintenance at home. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce inflammation, remove harmful bacteria, and promote healing to the gums. Here are the treatment methods available for feline gingivitis:

Professional Dental Cleaning

A thorough dental cleaning under anesthesia is often the first step in treating gingivitis. The main goal of the cleaning session is to remove the plaque and tartar in your cat’s teeth. Additionally, we’ll polish your cat’s teeth and prepare them to make it harder for plaque to stick. This step is essential for cats with moderate to severe gingivitis, as it addresses the root cause.

Antibiotic Therapy

If a bacterial infection is contributing to the gingivitis in your cat, we may also prescribe antibiotics. These can help reduce infection and inflammation, promoting faster healing. Any antibiotics you’ll need are available at our vet pharmacy.

Anti-inflammatory Medications

In cases where gum inflammation is severe, anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to alleviate pain and swelling. These medications are often used short-term to make the cat more comfortable during recovery.

Tooth Extractions

If gingivitis has progressed to the point where certain teeth are causing persistent issues, tooth extractions might be necessary. This is more common in advanced periodontal disease or in cases involving tooth resorption.

Dietary Adjustments

Some cats may benefit from switching to a dental health diet designed to reduce plaque buildup. Specialized kibble or wet food options can help promote oral hygiene.

Preventing Gingivitis in Cats

Preventing gingivitis in cats is far easier than treating advanced dental disease. With consistent care and a proactive approach, you can help your cat maintain healthy oral health and reduce the risk of gum inflammation.

Brush Your Cat’s Teeth

Regular teeth brushing is one of the best ways to prevent plaque buildup. Use a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste recommended by our vets. Start slowly, allowing your cat to get accustomed to the process, and aim for a few brushing sessions per week.

If you need help, professional dental cleaning services can provide thorough cleaning for your cat. With regular visits, you’ll be able to provide a deep clean for your cat’s teeth, removing any plaque that can’t be removed with a simple toothbrush, all while preventing feline gingivitis.

Provide Dental Treats and Toys

Dental treats and toys are designed to reduce plaque and tartar while being enjoyable for your cat. Look for products that are safe for cats to avoid any problems and issues.

Feed a Dental-Friendly Diet

Some cat foods are formulated specifically for oral health. These diets often include kibble, which is designed to help your best friend avoid any plaque buildup and can aid in avoiding gingivitis in cats.

Conclusion

Caring for your cat’s dental health is an essential part of keeping their overall well-being in good condition. Gingivitis in cats is a common yet preventable condition that, when caught early, can be treated effectively.