Gingivitis is one of the most common dental issues in cats, but it’s also one of the most preventable. Early-stage gum disease may start with a little redness or bad breath, but if left untreated, it can progress to more painful conditions like periodontitis, tooth loss, and infections.
While regular home care is missing from the majority of pet parents’ routines, cat owners are only about half as likely as dog owners to brush their pet’s teeth. Here’s why oral care is such an important part of your cat’s overall health.
What Is Feline Gingivitis?Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. It’s a precursor to dental disease, and unfortunately, nearly 70% of cats exhibit signs of it by age three.
Untreated gingivitis can affect your cat’s comfort and appetite, but the issues don’t end with their teeth. Over time, dental disease can cause heart, liver, and kidney problems as an overgrowth of infectious bacteria taxes other body systems.
The good news? Early-stage gingivitis is usually reversible with proper care.
Catching gingivitis early makes a big difference, so it’s important to recognize the signs. Healthy gums should be firm and pale pink with no swelling or bleeding.
Head to your vet if you notice:
Make a habit of gently examining your cat’s gums during playtime and petting sessions so you will notice changes if they happen.
Just like humans, cats are more likely to form good habits if they start them early. If you have a kitten, now is the perfect time to get them used to having their mouth gently handled. Try lifting their lips during cuddle time so they become more comfortable with oral care and examinations, and slowly work your way up to a more thorough cleaning using a pet-safe toothpaste.
Introducing a toothbrush or dental wipe while your cat is young can make future brushing much easier. However, if you’ve
adopted an adult cat, it’s never too late to make oral care part of your routine, but take it slow. Start with short, positive interactions and use treats or affection as rewards. The goal is to make dental care part of a positive routine, not a struggle.
If your cat is very resistant to brushing, dental chews, mouth rinses, and water additives are less invasive ways to remove plaque and improve gum health between professional dental cleanings at your vet’s office.
Even with excellent home care, professional dental exams and cleanings are still essential. During wellness visits, your veterinarian will check your cat’s teeth and gums for signs of disease that may not be visible at home and remove plaque from under the gumline, where brushing can’t reach.
These procedures are typically done under anesthesia to ensure your cat’s comfort and allow for a full evaluation of each tooth. Cats with early gingivitis may need more frequent cleanings, but the payoff is worth it: a healthier mouth and fewer long-term issues.
Great oral health (and total wellness, by extension) is about consistency. Regular brushing, routine monitoring, and annual dental exams are key to helping your cat lead a full and pain-free life.
Not sure where to start? Reach out to your veterinarian for help choosing the right dental products and improving home care. With a little patience and practice, you can build a routine that works for you and your cat.
At Falls Village Veterinary Hospital, a Raleigh, NC veterinarian, dogs, cats & their families deserve the best. In fact, we specialize in delivering warm, compassionate care that reminds our clients and patients how unique and important they truly are. We provide complete veterinary care including dentistry, laser therapy, surgery, and more. Call us today!
