Mary Allen
When cats suffer from gingivitis, the treatment consists of several steps: A thorough examination determines the extent of the inflammation before it is treated and a new infection is prevented.
During the veterinary examination, the first thing to do is find out how severe the inflammation is, whether it has already caused complications or whether it is chronic. The severity of any consequential damage and the associated threatening diseases must be recognized and ruled out before treatment can begin.
Cats With Gingivitis at the Vet
During the examination, the cat’s teeth are checked for tartar. It may be necessary to examine the cat for viruses using a swab. In advanced disease, an X-ray is then used to determine whether and to what extent the jawbone has already been attacked.
If the cat has tartar, a professional teeth cleaning is done because tartar provides a breeding ground for the bacteria that cause the inflammation. The animal is anesthetized, the teeth are cleaned and possibly polished at the end so that new plaque and thus tartar cannot settle so quickly. Loose teeth may need to be extracted.
Treatment of Inflammation & Prevention
Anti-inflammatory drugs, often antibiotics, are given to treat gingivitis. Homeopathic treatment is also sometimes suggested.
When the inflammation is over, it is then important to prevent new diseases so that the problem does not become chronic under any circumstances. Dental hygiene is now an important item on the program, and special food, special snacks, and brushing your teeth can contribute to this. It is best to prevent gingivitis, a common disease in cats, in the first place. Brushing your teeth and regular check-ups at the vet will help. Sometimes certain dry food is recommended for dental care, but the effect is highly controversial. The reason for the criticism is the assumption that the dry food is softened by the saliva and then sticks to the teeth – dental problems would be further encouraged. If in doubt, it is best to ask your veterinarian for advice.