Cat Gingivitis in Cats: A Veterinarian’s Guide to Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Gingivitis in cats is one of the most common dental conditions diagnosed in small animal practice, particularly in adult and senior cats. While early gingivitis may appear mild, ongoing inflammation of the gums can progress into more serious forms of feline dental disease if not properly addressed. From a veterinary perspective, gingivitis is not simply a cosmetic issue. It is a medical condition that can significantly affect a cat’s comfort, appetite, and overall quality of life.

At our veterinary hospital serving South Orange County, we routinely evaluate cats with gingivitis during dental exams and wellness visits. This guide explains what cat gingivitis is, why it develops, how it is treated, and how regular dental care helps prevent long-term complications.

What Is Gingivitis in Cats?

Cat gingivitis is inflammation of the gingival tissue surrounding the teeth. It develops when plaque bacteria accumulate along the gumline and trigger an inflammatory immune response. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, creating a surface that further promotes bacterial growth and inflammation.

At this stage, gingivitis affects only the gums and is considered reversible. Without intervention, inflammation can extend deeper into the tooth-supporting structures, progressing to periodontal disease.

Figure 1: Severe feline gingivitis: inflamed, reddened gums surrounding the teeth, a common and painful dental condition in cats that requires veterinary evaluation and treatment.

What Causes Gingivitis in Cats?

Several factors contribute to gingivitis in cats, including:

Cats are especially prone to inflammatory dental disease due to how their immune systems react to oral bacteria, even when overall health appears normal.

Figure 2: Periodontal disease progresses from mild gum inflammation to severe bone loss and tooth damage. Early detection, professional dental care, and routine cleanings are essential for long-term oral health.

Signs and Symptoms of Gingivitis in Cats

Common clinical signs of gingivitis include:

Because cats instinctively hide pain, dental disease is often more advanced by the time owners notice symptoms.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Gingivitis in Cats

Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive oral examination. While visible redness and swelling can suggest gingivitis, a complete assessment often requires dental probing and dental X-rays, which are performed under anesthesia.

Dental X-rays allow veterinarians to evaluate tooth roots and surrounding bone, helping determine whether disease is limited to the gums or has progressed further.

Cat Gingivitis Treatment Options

Professional Dental Cleaning and Scaling

Professional dental cleaning under anesthesia is the cornerstone of treatment. This procedure allows veterinarians to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline, polish the teeth, and identify any teeth that may be painful or damaged.

Home Care for Cats with Gingivitis

Home dental care supports professional treatment and may include tooth brushing, prescription dental diets, and veterinary-approved oral rinses. While helpful for prevention, home care alone cannot remove established tartar.

Medications and Adjunct Therapies

Some cats benefit from short-term medications such as anti-inflammatories or pain control, particularly when inflammation is significant. These are always used alongside appropriate dental treatment.

Can You Treat Gingivitis in Cats at Home?

While early gingivitis may be managed with diligent home care after professional treatment, most cases require veterinary intervention. Attempting to treat moderate or advanced gingivitis at home often delays care and allows disease progression.

How to Prevent Gingivitis in Cats

Prevention focuses on reducing plaque accumulation and identifying disease early. Recommended strategies include:

Gingivitis vs Stomatitis in Cats

Gingivitis affects only the gums, while feline stomatitis involves severe inflammation of the entire oral cavity. Stomatitis is often immune-mediated and may require extensive treatment, including extractions. Early gingivitis management may reduce inflammatory burden and help prevent progression.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Gingivitis

Is gingivitis in cats serious?

Yes. Gingivitis represents active gum inflammation and can progress to periodontal disease if untreated. Early intervention offers the best chance to prevent irreversible damage and chronic pain.

How do veterinarians treat gingivitis in cats?

Treatment typically involves professional dental cleaning under anesthesia, removal of plaque and tartar, dental X-rays when indicated, and a long-term home care plan.

Can gingivitis in cats be treated at home?

Home care alone is rarely sufficient once gingivitis is present. Veterinary evaluation and professional treatment are usually required, with home care serving a preventive role afterward.

What are the early signs of gingivitis in cats?

Early signs include red gums, bad breath, mild drooling, and subtle changes in eating behavior. Many cases are first identified during routine veterinary exams.

How often should cats have dental exams?

Most cats benefit from annual dental exams. Cats with existing dental disease may require more frequent evaluations based on veterinary recommendations.

Does gingivitis cause pain in cats?

Yes. Gingival inflammation is painful, even when outward signs are subtle. Treatment improves comfort and overall quality of life.

Can gingivitis lead to stomatitis in cats?

Chronic oral inflammation may contribute to more severe immune-mediated conditions in some cats. Early treatment of gingivitis may help reduce this risk.

When should I schedule a dental cleaning for my cat?

Dental cleaning is recommended whenever gingivitis, tartar buildup, or oral discomfort is identified during a veterinary exam. Early treatment is typically less invasive and more effective.