What is Gum Disease in Cats

Cats can hide signs of dental pain, so changes in their eating habits, behaviour or mouth can be important clues. 

Signs can include: 

• Bad breath 

• Red, swollen or bleeding gums 

• Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth 

• Loose or missing teeth 

• Drooling, sometimes with blood in the saliva 

• Difficulty eating or chewing 

• Dropping food 

• Pawing or rubbing at the mouth 

• Reduced grooming 

• Reduced appetite or changes in eating habits 

Some cats may also become less willing to have their head or mouth touched or become quieter or more withdrawn. 

Contact your vet if you notice any signs of gum disease or a change in your cat’s eating habits or behaviour. Dental disease can be painful, even when your cat appears otherwise well. 

Contact your vet urgently if your cat: 

• Appears to be in significant pain 

• Is unable or unwilling to eat or drink 

• Has marked swelling around the face or jaw 

• Has significant bleeding from the mouth 

• Is unable to close their mouth 

Gum disease is diagnosed through a clinical examination by a vet. They will examine your cat’s mouth and look for signs of inflammation and disease affecting the gums and tissues supporting the teeth. 

If dental treatment is needed, a more detailed examination can be carried out under general anaesthesia as part of the dental procedure. Each tooth and the surrounding gums can then be assessed closely, including probing around the teeth to assess the tissues supporting them. 

Dental X-rays are important in cats because disease affecting the tooth roots and surrounding bone cannot always be seen by examining the visible tooth surface alone. X-rays can help identify disease that may otherwise remain hidden. 

Treatment depends on the severity of your cat’s gum disease and the individual teeth affected. Your vet will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on their examination and any dental X-rays taken. 

Treatment may include professional dental cleaning, cleaning below the gum line, or extraction of teeth that are severely affected or have lost significant support. Pain relief or other medication may also be recommended where appropriate. 

Regular dental care can help reduce the build-up of plaque and support your cat’s oral health. 

There are a range of ways to help care for your cat’s teeth at home, including toothbrushing, dental diets, chews, gels, wipes and powders. The most suitable options will depend on your individual cat. 

For more information about caring for your pet’s teeth at home, see our Dental Care at Home article. 

Regular veterinary checks can also help identify dental problems and determine whether your cat needs further assessment or treatment. 

The outlook for cats with gum disease depends on how advanced the disease is and which teeth are affected. Treatment can relieve pain and help control further damage to the gums and tissues supporting the teeth. Ongoing home dental care and regular veterinary checks can help maintain your cat’s oral health.