Signs of gum disease in cats, and how to prevent it

The earliest signs of gum disease in cats are bad breath that doesn't go away, redness along the gum line, and chewing on one side. Gum disease affects more than half of cats over four, but because cats hide pain so well, it's usually noticed only once it has progressed. On this page you'll find the signs of gum disease in cats, how the disease progresses, how to check your cat's mouth and care for their teeth at home, what a professional cleaning involves, and when to see the vet without waiting.

Signs and what they mean

Healthy cat gums are pale pink. Some cats have black spots on their gums; that's pigment and is usually normal.

How gum disease progresses

1. Plaque: A film of bacteria forms on the teeth after eating. At this stage, brushing removes it.
2. Tartar: Plaque that isn't removed hardens within days. Brushing can't remove tartar.
3. Gingivitis: The gum edge turns red and swells. This stage can still be reversed.
4. Periodontitis: Inflammation spreads to the tissue and bone that hold the tooth. That loss doesn't come back; the tooth loosens and may need to be removed.

Inflammation in the mouth doesn't stay in the mouth; long-lasting gum disease can affect a cat's overall health too.

Two problems specific to cats

• Tooth resorption: Very common in adult cats. The tooth breaks down, starting at the root or the gum line. It's very painful, but in early stages it can't be seen from outside and is often found only on X-rays. Jaw chattering, going to the bowl and walking away, or chewing on one side are important clues.
• Stomatitis: A widespread, painful inflammation at the back of the mouth and inside the cheeks. The cat is hungry but can't eat, and drools more. It needs veterinary treatment.

How to check your cat's mouth at home

Once a week, while your cat is relaxed:

1. Hold your cat on your lap or beside you and gently steady their head.
2. Lift the lip at the side and look at the back teeth; bad breath and tartar are usually worst there.
3. Look closely at the gum line: is there a red line, swelling or bleeding?
4. Keep it short and end with a treat. If your cat gets uncomfortable, don't force it; try another day.

Dental care at home

• Brushing is the most effective method. Daily is ideal; even a few times a week makes a difference.
• Use cat toothpaste. Human toothpaste isn't suitable for cats; it isn't made to be swallowed, and some contain ingredients that are harmful to cats.
• Start slowly. For a few days, just touch the lips and give a treat; then let your cat taste toothpaste from your finger; then move on to a finger brush or soft cat toothbrush on a few teeth. This can take a few weeks.
• Focus on the outer surfaces. The side of the teeth facing the cheek matters most; the tongue cleans the inner side.
• Dental diets and treats help, but don't replace brushing. Choose products whose effect has been independently tested, and ask your vet.

If your cat won't accept brushing at all, regular mouth checks and a yearly vet exam still make a big difference.

Professional dental cleaning

Tartar and inflammation below the gum line can only be cleaned at the vet. A proper cleaning is done under general anesthesia: the vet cleans below the gum line, checks each tooth individually and takes X-rays if needed. "Anesthesia-free" scaling only cleans the visible surface, can't reach below the gums where the disease actually is, and isn't recommended.

Worrying about anesthesia is understandable. Your vet will first check with blood tests whether your cat is fit for anesthesia. For most cats, the risk of living with a painful tooth is greater than the risk of a carefully managed anesthetic.

When to go without waiting

• Your cat hasn't eaten anything for more than a day (long fasting damages a cat's liver)
• There's swelling on the face, jaw or under an eye
• There's blood coming from the mouth, or your cat can't close their mouth
• You see a broken tooth

Cats are experts at hiding illness, and mouth pain often stays silent. For other hidden signs, see how cats hide illness.

The yearly checkup

The yearly exam includes a mouth check and can fall on the same day as vaccine boosters; see the adult booster intervals in the kitten vaccine schedule. Mouth checks become even more important as cats get older.

Frequently asked questions

My cat's breath always smells a bit. Is that normal?

A mild food smell is normal. A noticeable bad smell that doesn't go away is often the first sign of gum inflammation.

Does dry food clean teeth?

Regular dry food has a limited effect. Some foods designed for dental care can help, but they don't replace brushing.

Can my cat eat after a tooth extraction?

Yes. Most cats eat more comfortably once a painful tooth is gone. Your vet may suggest soft or wet food for the first few days.

Can I remove tartar at home?

No. Tartar is hardened plaque, and scraping it at home damages the gums and enamel. Cleaning should be done at the vet.