Gingivitis in cats

Learn about gingivitis in cats, its causes, symptoms, treatments, and how to prevent it from progressing to periodontitis.

Image of a cat being treated for gingivitis

Overview

Gingivitis in cats is a painful condition that can spread to other parts of the mouth (stomatitis), making eating very uncomfortable and sore for your cat. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to tooth decay and loss due to periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis.

According to a study, 1.8 million cats in the UK are diagnosed with periodontal disease every year, meaning it’s the most commonly diagnosed disease in cats. The term gingivitis comes from 'gingiva,' meaning gums, and ‘itis,’ which refers to inflammation. So, gingivitis simply means inflammation of the gums, specifically the gum tissue that holds the teeth in place.

What causes of gingivitis in cats?

Spotting the symptoms of gingivitis in cats

Treating gingivitis in cats

How to treat gingivitis in cats at home

Periodontitis

Medically reviewed by Lizzie Youens BSc(Hons) BVSc MRCVS

Published on 16/08/2018 • Reviewed on 17/10/2024