What It Is
Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums, specifically the area around the base of the teeth. It’s the earliest stage of periodontal disease, and it’s both common and reversible when caught early.
Gingivitis may look mild, but if left untreated, it can lead to pain, tooth loss, and serious infections. It’s your cat’s mouth waving a red flag, and your cue to take action.
🐾 Common Symptoms
Mild gingivitis is easy to miss unless you’re looking inside your cat’s mouth, but signs may include:
- Red or swollen gums (especially along the tooth line)
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Yellow or brown tartar on teeth
- Drooling
- Discomfort when eating
- Head shaking or pawing at the mouth
- Bleeding gums (often seen during eating or chewing)
In some cats, the only sign is a subtle change in behavior, less grooming, reluctance to eat, or irritability.
🦠 Causes
Gingivitis happens when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates on the teeth and hardens into tartar. The bacteria in tartar irritate the gums, causing inflammation.
Common causes include:
- Poor dental hygiene (no brushing or cleanings)
- Diet (especially all-dry food with no dental support)
- Genetics (some cats are more prone to gum inflammation)
- Underlying diseases (e.g., FIV, FeLV, diabetes, kidney disease)
- Immune-mediated conditions (e.g., stomatitis)
🔍 Diagnosis
Your vet can usually spot gingivitis during a routine dental exam.
Additional diagnostics may include:
- Dental X-rays (to check for root or bone involvement)
- Full oral exam under anesthesia (for accurate assessment)
- Bloodwork (to check for systemic illness)
- Staging of periodontal disease (to guide treatment)
💊 Treatment
Mild gingivitis can often be reversed with proper dental care. More advanced cases require deeper intervention.
Treatment options include:
- Professional dental cleaning (removal of plaque and tartar under anesthesia)
- Tooth extractions (if gingivitis is advanced or if teeth are damaged)
- Home dental care
- Brushing with cat-safe toothpaste
- Dental gels, rinses, or wipes
- Dental treats and special diets
- Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory meds (in severe or chronic cases)
Regular follow-ups are essential to prevent progression to periodontal disease or stomatitis.
🩺 Prognosis
With early intervention and ongoing dental care, gingivitis is highly treatable and often reversible. If left untreated, it can progress to more serious conditions involving the teeth, roots, and jawbone.
Cats with chronic or immune-mediated gingivitis may need long-term management and more frequent cleanings.
💡 Cat Owner Note
Your cat probably won’t say, “Hey, my gums hurt.” But if you peek into their mouth and see bright red lines or smell that classic “fishy” cat breath, gingivitis may be brewing. Catching it now can spare your cat a world of pain later.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Gingivitis in Cats
Can gingivitis be cured in cats?
Yes, if caught early and treated with professional cleaning and regular dental care. Chronic or immune-related cases may require ongoing management.
How can I tell if my cat has gingivitis?
Lift their lip and check the gum line. Redness, swelling, or bleeding near the teeth are early signs. Bad breath is often the first clue.
Do I really need to brush my cat’s teeth?
Yes, if they’ll let you! Daily brushing is ideal. If not, dental treats, diets, and vet-prescribed rinses can help.
Will my cat need anesthesia?
Yes, for a thorough dental cleaning. Anesthesia allows safe scaling, X-rays, and a complete oral exam without stress or injury.
How often should my cat get a dental cleaning?
Most cats benefit from annual cleanings, especially if they’re prone to plaque or have early signs of gum disease.
Can gingivitis come back?
Absolutely. Without ongoing care, it often recurs. Dental hygiene is a lifelong commitment for cats prone to oral issues.