Gum inflammation in cats – causes and treatment
Gum inflammation (gingivitis) in cats can be triggered by various causes and is often accompanied by severe pain in the mouth. It is important to take a recurring or persistent inflammation of the gums seriously and consult a vet without delay. Mild and occasional irritations in the mouth, however, can be supported through care. Find out now how.
How does gum inflammation develop?
An inflammation in the mouth and on the gums is usually caused by bacteria. These can form, for example, through a lack of dental hygiene, tartar or food residues between the teeth. When the inflammation spreads to the teeth, the tooth neck and the tooth root, this is referred to as periodontitis. Even when the teeth are cared for regularly and carefully, gum inflammation can occur if the periodontal pockets are very deep or there is tooth decay between the teeth. In experience, cats quite often have to deal with inflammations of the gums. Typical symptoms are redness, bleeding and pain. If these symptoms do not subside within a few days or keep recurring, a vet should be consulted. The three main causes of inflammation are tartar, FORL (feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions) and chronic gingivitis-stomatitis. Since bacteria are responsible for the inflammation in most cases, consistent oral hygiene is necessary.
The importance of oral hygiene in gum inflammation
Occasional irritations of the gums can be supported through improved care. In the case of bacterial inflammation, FORL or chronic gingivitis-stomatitis, however, a visit to the vet is definitely advisable. Vets often administer antibiotics in combination with anti-inflammatory medication such as cortisone. In older cats or those with a weakened immune system, this should be weighed up carefully.
For daily care of the mouth, gentle measures are recommended that support natural oral hygiene. Removing bacteria in the cat's mouth is an important criterion with every gum inflammation, in order to prevent it from developing into chronic gingivitis and spreading to the teeth.
Bad breath is often a major problem in cats, and not only in older cats. Since the cause likewise lies in the bacteria present in the mouth, good hygiene is beneficial in any case.
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The content of the articles is for general information purposes only and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian. This information does not constitute medical advice and should not be construed as such.
