Symptom
Red or bleeding gums in a dog or cat
Redness, swelling or bleeding gums are often linked to gingivitis — gum inflammation. Without an exam you cannot tell whether this is early disease or deeper changes around the teeth. A preserved appetite does not rule out discomfort.
Important note for owners
Do not call every red gum “stomatitis”. When the gums themselves are inflamed, the clearer term is gingivitis. Separate mucosal diseases (such as chronic gingivostomatitis in cats) are assessed after an examination.
Most common possible causes
- —Gingivitis secondary to plaque and tartar
- —Periodontitis
- —Gum trauma
- —In cats — TR or chronic gingivostomatitis (after diagnosis)
When not to postpone an exam
- ✓Gums are clearly red, swollen or bleed easily
- ✓Bad breath
- ✓The pet avoids hard food or touch to the muzzle
- ✓There is plaque or tartar and inflammation is increasing
Urgent help needed
- ✓Active bleeding that will not stop
- ✓Rapidly increasing facial swelling
- ✓Difficulty breathing
- ✓A sudden deterioration in general condition
What not to do at home
- —Do not use human mouthwashes, toothpastes or gels
- —Do not give human painkillers
- —Do not force-brush inflamed gums
What diagnostics may be needed
- ✓Clinical examination
- ✓Assessment of gums and periodontal pockets
- ✓Dental radiography
- ✓COHAT when indicated
Pocket depth and the condition of bone around the teeth are determined under anaesthesia and on dental radiographs.
How treatment may proceed
- ✓Professional cleaning
- ✓Periodontal therapy
- ✓Treatment or extraction of teeth when indicated
Related services
Similar symptoms
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