Gingivitis (Dental Disease)

Gingivitis is a very common but serious problem in felines as it can lead to a more serious condition, gum disease. It can cause severe discomfort for your cat but can be prevented by a few simple measures. Any cat can contract Gingivitis but it is most common in cats over the age of 3.

 

Causes:

• Bad chewing habits 

• Foreign body obstruction

• Autoimmune disease

• Overcrowded teeth

• Ingestion of spoiled food

• Accumulation of plaque

 

Symptoms:

When a cat has Gingivitis they usually present with the following behavioural and physical symptoms.

 

Behavioural:

• General discomfort

• Avoiding solid foods

• Unwillingness to wash

 

Physical:

• Red, swollen gums

• Swelling in the side of the gum facing the inner cheeks

• Halitosis/bad breath

• Plaque

• White or bloody discharge from the gums

• Discolouration of the teeth

• Weight loss

 

Prevention

• Maintain your cats oral health by brushing his/her teeth regularly with feline toothbrush and toothpaste.

• Invest in chew-toys to decrease chances of plaque build up.

• If Gingivitis is a common occurance in your feline, look into surgery to remove overcrowded teeth.