Why does my cat have inflamed gums?

Disease-causing bacteria that accumulate on and below the gums produce substances that damage the cells that form a barrier between the gums and the teeth. This allows the bacteria access to the connective tissue below the teeth where the cat’s immune system will probably react by making the gums inflamed and painful.

What causes reddish gums?

The number one cause of red, swollen gums is gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by poor dental hygiene. When you don’t brush or floss regularly, bacteria and plaque builds up around the gums. The bacteria in plaque irritates the gums, causing a puffy, red appearance.

What can I feed my cat with gingivitis?

The Top Five Cat Dental Health Products for Purrfect Gums and…

  • Hill’s Science Plan Adult Oral Care Dry Cat Food with Chicken is clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar.
  • Avoid being clawed with Logic Oral Hygiene Gel, a gel that’s great for cats that don’t like having their teeth brushed.

What color are a cat’s gums supposed to be?

pink
Healthy gums are pink, pale or bright; red gums may mean something is wrong with your cat. Drooling and pawing at the mouth are cause for concern as well. Brown streaks and tartar build-up on the teeth may indicate a dental problem.

How do you massage a cat’s gums?

Get your cat used to the idea of having her teeth brushed. Keep the sessions short and positive. Gently massage her gums with your finger or a cotton swab. Use a toothbrush designed especially for cats; it’s smaller than a human toothbrush and has softer bristles.

How do you tell if your cat has swollen gums?

Symptoms of Enlarged Gums in Cats

  1. Thick gums.
  2. Pockets that are present on the gums.
  3. Growth on the gum line.
  4. Drooling.
  5. Stomach upsets.
  6. Pawing at the face.
  7. Sensitivity around the mouth.
  8. Pus that has developed around teeth.

What can I feed my cat with sore gums?

If your cat is suffering from stomatitis, then either switch to a soft canned food or moisten your cat’s dry food with water, so it forms a mash. Some cats may even find it difficult to eat canned food; in this case, you may have to puree canned food until their gums heal.

Do red gums mean infection?

Red: Red gums indicate inflammation or infection. They will likely be sensitive and may even bleed during brushing and flossing. Seek out professional advice as soon as you can. Yellow: A slight yellow tint or film on your gums is an indicator of gingivitis.

Are red gums bad?

Unhealthy Gums. If you have healthy gums, they will look firm and pink. Some signs of unhealthy gums include redness and swelling, gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, and gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth.

Why does my cat have red gums?

While gum infections are typically caused by tartar buildup, your cat’s red gums could also be caused by certain nutritional disorders, feline panleukopenia, immune disorders, feline viral respiratory disease complex or liver or kidney failure.

What are some causes for pale gums in cats?

Anemia

  • Shock (which causes decreased blood flow due to a drop in blood pressure or loss of blood from an injury)
  • or blood clotting disorders)
  • How do you treat cat gum disease?

    Treatment Options for Cat Gum Disease. The cats that have grade 1 and 2 gum disease can be treated with a professional cleaning. The vet will clean and polish the teeth, remove the plaque and tartar. In some cases, an ultrasonic scaler will be used and fluoride will be applied.

    What causes cat gum disease?

    What Causes Gum Disease in Cats? Age and Health. Your cat’s age is a significant factor in his or her susceptibility to gum disease. Genetics. Breed and genetics play a large role in gum disease susceptibility. Grooming Habits. Hair accumulation around your cat’s teeth increases tartar development. Home Care. Diet.