Q: How do I know if my cat suffers from gingivitis?
A: Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, and it is reversible. It can only be cured with proper treatment, and is a common oral problem in cats. Symptoms can include the following:
- Bad breath
- Redness and swelling of the gums
- Yellow plaque on the teeth
- A red line on the gums above the area where the teeth meet the gums
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty competing for food in a multi-cat home
- Difficulty or reluctance to eat, and decreased appetite
- Dropping food from the mouth
- Rubbing at the face or mouth with the paws or against objects like floors and furniture
- Having accidents outside the litterbox
- Acting sick, less active or withdrawn from normal activities
- Weight loss
Gingivitis in cats should be treated by a veterinarian sooner rather than later, as this condition can be very painful for cats.
