Prevention and Treatment For Gingivitis In Dogs and Cats

Gingivitis in pets is a common condition for dogs and cats. It’s one that is treatable but not technically “curable.” By understanding the causes of gingivitis, what it could lead to, and the treatment for it, pet owners can help their dogs and cats avoid developing conditions that have more serious consequences.

Understanding Pet Gum Disease

It might be hard to hear, but gingivitis in cats and dogs is technically gum disease. Dogs and cats develop gingivitis when plaque builds up on their teeth and gums. That build-up creates inflammation, which means the gums become red and swollen. 

Gingivitis in dogs and cats can cause bleeding, it can lead to excessive drooling, it can prompt bad breath and, most importantly, it can lead to more serious gum disease. All of those consequences are why a combination of treatment and prevention are recommended, on a regular basis, for all dogs and cats.

The American Veterinary Dental Society recognizes that the overwhelming majority of all cats and dogs will show signs of periodontal disease by the age of 3. So, it’s common. But, Dr. Kelly’s Surgical unit also recognizes that there are steps that dog and cat owners can take to reduce its impact or prevent it from progressing to a more serious condition. 

Pet Dental Hygiene Habits

The best thing that dog and cat owners can do to get ahead of gingivitis and periodontal disease in their pets is to establish healthy pet dental hygiene habits. And once they’re established, it’s important to stick with them.

Brushing regularly at home, with products designed for pets, helps keep plaque in check. It’s important to remember that dogs and cats might not be big fans of brushing, but stick with it. Try different products until you find one that works best for you and your dog or cat.

In addition to brushing at home, be sure to commit to regular professional cleanings with a veterinarian. At Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit, we offer affordable dental cleanings for dogs and cats, and we recommend that pets receive a cleaning once a year. 

Preventing Gum Disease

There is technically no “cure” for gingivitis because, without proper preventative care, it can return. It’s why cleanings are so important to long-term dental health.

At Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit, our affordable cleanings are conducted by veterinary professionals who specialize in surgical procedures. Even routine dental cleanings for dogs and cats require anesthesia, for comfort and safety purposes. During the procedure, our skilled veterinary specialists will not only clean an animal’s teeth, but they’ll be mindful to identify any other potential problems that might need to be addressed.

Those regular cleanings also serve as benchmarks to measure if a condition is improving or deteriorating. 

Is it time for you and your dog or cat to start a healthy dental hygiene routine? Contact our team to get pricing for our affordable dental cleanings.

Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit is a trusted veterinary team serving the Phoenix, Peoria, East Mesa, Queen Creek, and Tucson metro areas, with accessible locations in each market, offering highly specialized surgery, quality spay and neuter procedures, and accessible dental care for pets. Contact us to learn more about our specialized services or to schedule an appointment.