Gum disease in cats

Overview

Unfortunately, many cat owners become aware that their cat has a serious dental problem is when the cat stops eating. Since a lack of appetite can be a problem sign for many feline illnesses, however, this should never be ignored and requires a trip to the veterinarian’s office right away.

Far too many cats (estimates range from 75 to 90%) suffer from gingivitis, an inflammation of the gum tissues surrounding the teeth, often beginning when the cat is as young as five or six years old. Gingivitis occurs when particles of food, bacteria in the mouth, and saliva combine and harden on the teeth around the gum line. If not removed, inflammation sets in. If gingivitis continues over years, infection will grow into the tooth root, the bone underneath, and into surrounding tissues. The cat will be in serious danger of losing his teeth and long term gum disease can also affect the cat’s kidneys and heart.

All cats may develop gum disease, however, some breeds are more prone to it than others, including British Shorthairs and Himalayans.

Symptoms

Early stages:

• Bad breath
• Red inflamed gums
• Unwillingness to eat hard foods
• A build up of plaque on the teeth near the gums

More advanced stages:

• Drooling
• Broken or missing teeth
• Stops eating completely
• A significant build up of plaque on the teeth, sometimes obscuring the teeth

Prevention

The ideal way to prevent future gum disease is to introduce teeth cleaning to the cat while he’s a kitten. For the first few introductory sessions, hold the kitten close to your body with one hand and arm, and with a gauze wrapped index finger, simply touch a few of the kitten’s teeth. When the kitten is accepting this, begin gently rubbing the teeth and gums, taking care not to hurt the kitten or frighten him. As the kitten becomes more accepting, you can add tooth paste made for dogs and cats to the gauze on your finger, and gradually rub all the teeth in his mouth.

If you cat is already an adult, you can still introduce him to this process but you may wish to wrap him in a towel first, making sure that all feet (and claws) are securely inside the towel. Hold him on your lap with one hand and arm keeping him wrapped and secure. Then begin touching his teeth using the same introductory method mentioned for kittens. If your cat is unhappy about the process, introduce it even more slowly and gently. Ideally, your cat’s teeth should be cleaned at home two to three times per week.

Never use toothpastes or products made for people. These can cause vomiting and other problems in cats. In addition, don’t use tooth brushes made for people; they are much too big for your cat’s mouth. Medical gauze wrapped around your finger will provide plenty of abrasion.

If your cat has a severe plaque build up and infection is present, your veterinarian may recommend a professional dental cleaning. Your cat will be anesthetized for the procedure and all of his teeth will be cleaned of the plaque build up and any diseased teeth will be removed. Then, when his gums are healed, you can begin cleaning his teeth at home to maintain those pearly whites.