Mary Allen
What are pale gums in dogs?
Gums are the soft tissues that surround and support the teeth of dogs. They are usually pink in colour, but when they become pale, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Pale gums in dogs refer to the loss of the normal pink colour of the gums, making them appear lighter or white. This change in colour could occur in one or all areas of the gums.
What causes pale gums in dogs?
Pale gums in dogs could be caused by a variety of factors, including anaemia, shock, blood loss, dehydration, liver disease, kidney disease, and infections. Anaemia is the most common cause of pale gums in dogs and occurs when there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells or haemoglobin in the blood. This could be due to blood loss from an injury, intestinal parasites, or a bone marrow disorder. Shock, which is a life-threatening condition, could also cause pale gums in dogs. Shock occurs when there is inadequate blood flow to the body’s tissues, leading to a drop in blood pressure.
How to identify pale gums in dogs?
Pale gums in dogs can be identified by checking the colour of their gums. Normally, dogs have pink gums, but when they become pale, the gums may appear white, grey, or yellowish. The gums may also feel dry or sticky to the touch. To check if your dog has pale gums, lift its lip and press your finger against its gums. If the gums do not return to their normal pink colour within two seconds, your dog may have pale gums. It is essential to note that some dog breeds have black or pigmented gums, which make it difficult to determine their normal gum colour.