My Cat's Gums Are Red around the Teeth-What Could This Be?

Q: My cat's gums have been red around the tooth line since he was a couple of months old. His teeth are clean, but he has bad breath. What can this be?Q: My cat's gums have been red around the tooth line since he was a couple of months old. His teeth are clean, but he has bad breath. What can this be?

A: This definitely sounds like gingivitis. Sometimes the gum line in cats can be inflamed for a month or two after they get their permanent set of teeth but it sounds like your cat may have passed this point.

If the teeth are healthy, there is no need for major dental work now although your cat may need it in the future. For now, we want to keep the teeth and gums as healthy as possible. Make sure that your pet gets hard food which is great for the teeth.

Daily brushing is also extremely important for your cat. Your veterinarian may have other products that you can use to prevent dental disease such as gels that can be applied to the teeth.