Symptoms of Feline Gum Diseases

Cats can experience a number of different gum-related issues, including gingivitis, periodontal disease and gingivitis-stomatitis. These conditions are often painful and can cause a variety of problems for the feline. Often, cat owners will not notice the problems until the issues are advanced and are causing the cat to behave in an abnormal way. While a few of the issues cannot be cured, they can be managed, and doing so can help to relieve some of the pain the feline is experiencing. Therefore, if your cat shows any symptoms of feline gum disease, take it to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

  1. Bad Breath

    • Bad breath, or halitosis, is often found in cats that have gum disease. According to Dr. Holly Nash of Doctors Foster and Smith, bad breath is caused by food particles and bacteria that are collected along the cat’s gum line. These items turn into plaque, and then tartar in a few days. The tartar causes the gums to become red and inflamed and eventually brings on the bad breath. If you notice your cat has persistent bad breath, it is likely a sign it has some type of gum disease present.

    Sensitivity around Mouth

    • When gums are swollen and inflamed, they are often quite painful, as well. According to the Pawprints and Purrs website, cats with gum disease will sometimes show sensitivities around their mouths. This may mean they avoid having their mouths touched or will even become aggressive at an attempt to do so. The cat may also paw at its mouth, have difficulty chewing or even refuse to eat all together.

    Mouth Changes

    • Cats with gum disease may experience changes in their mouths. Affected cats will often have pus around their teeth, states Nash. In addition, the cat may drool or have gums that bleed easily. Felines with gum disease are also often depressed and lethargic, on account of the pain. They may also have stomach or intestinal upsets. The gums of these cats may recede and expose their tooth roots and they may not be able to close their mouths. Felines with gum disease may also have brown or yellow deposits on their teeth at the edges of the gums.