Gingivitis is considered to be the first stage of periodontal diseases. We know it exists in humans, but is there a form of feline gingivitis? If you think your cat has oral problems, find a cheap doctor to help your pets.
What causes feline gingivitis?
There is no known cause for feline gingivitis. However, one thing that most cats and dogs who suffer from gingivitis have is excessive plaque accumulation. Other factors also contribute to gingivitis in pets such as old age, crowded teeth, breathing with an open mouth, lack or good oral care, autoimmune diseases, bad chewing habits, uremia, and other diseases. Different symptoms can make it evident that the cat is suffering from feline gingivitis. Halitosis or bad breath may be a sign, as well as red or swollen gums. Owners have to look at the gums that are facing the inner cheeks, as those are the most commonly affected. Lastly, amounts of plaque on the surface of the tooth would also be a symptom. If you notice any of these in your pet, it would be a good idea to consult a veterinarian.
Treatment methods
How does a pet owner go about having their pet treated for feline gingivitis? The most important step to getting rid of gingivitis is to remove all the plaque on the teeth and make sure it stays off permanently to prevent the disease from reoccurring.
- Dental cleaning. It is advised for cats who have feline gingivitis to have a dental cleaning at least every six months. The veterinarian can be able to
do the routine cleaning and make sure that the build-up of plaque does not come back.
- Extraction of teeth. Teeth that are in the affected area should be extracted until the root tip.
- Home care. Daily oral hygiene habits should be practiced. Owners should brush the teeth of their cat if the cat will allow them to. It would be easier to start with a younger cat to get them used to have their teeth brushed.
- Good nutrition. Eating the right food would also be a supporting factor in the way to make sure that gingivitis does not reoccur. Giving the cat vitamins and other supplements would be a good way to keep plaque off teeth. Also keeping them away from wet food would aid in the prevention.
- Medications. Your veterinarian may prescribe medicines if all else fails. cyclosporine, antibiotics, and others would be the most common.
It would be more difficult for us to notice that our pets are experiencing any oral problems because it would be hard to tell if they are meowing in pain or just meowing to wish you good morning. The best thing to do would be to schedule regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian to make sure that your cat would be in the best possible health status.