Take a close look at the photos below. To the untrained eye, this might just look like Swollen and red gums.
Dental disease is the #1 most common clinical condition in adult dogs and cats. Unlike humans, who will complain about a toothache immediately, your pet has an evolutionary instinct to mask pain to avoid appearing vulnerable.
Here is a deep dive into the specific biology of below Garfield Cat Mr. Michael's mouth and how it was caused and how to prevent it and treat it properly.
1. Why does this happen? (The Carnivore Mouth)
# Specific anatomy and Immune system
- The Biofilm: It starts with plaque. Because dogs and cats have a more alkaline mouth pH than humans, plaque mineralizes into rock-hard tartar much faster, sometimes within 24-48 hours.
- The Immune Response: The gum tissue becomes red and swollen (gingivitis) as the body tries to fight the bacteria. In cats, this can trigger Stomatitis, a severe, agonizing allergic reaction to their own plaque that causes the entire mouth to become ulcerated.
- Breed & Anatomy: Genetics play a massive role.
- Cats: Are prone to Tooth Resorption (TR), where the body attacks the tooth structure, eating it away from the inside out. This is akin to a raw nerve being exposed, yet they often keep eating.
# Cat Food Multiple Choice:
There are a few main types of cat food that you’ll typically find, and they each serve different needs. Here are the most common ones:
- Dry Food (Kibble):
- Convenient, long shelf life, and often more affordable.
- Can help keep teeth clean but should be paired with water since it’s low in moisture.
- Wet Food (Canned):
-
- Contains more moisture, which can help with hydration.
- Often preferred by cats because it's more flavorful and easier to chew.
- Great for picky eaters or cats with urinary issues.
- Semi-Moist Food:
-
- Not as common as dry and wet, but you might find it in pouches or little chunks.
- It’s not as healthy as wet food due to added sugars and preservatives.
- Raw or Freeze-Dried Food:
-
- Mimics what cats would eat in the wild, with high protein and no fillers.
- Raw food can be risky if not handled properly but some prefer it for its natural benefits.
- Fresh Food:
- Comes in refrigerated or frozen form and is made from high-quality, human-grade ingredients.
- You can find subscription services for this type of food that deliver fresh meals for your cat.
Right Food Selection for your Cat:
Dry cat food (kibble) is generally more likely to contribute to tooth issues like cavities and gum swelling, especially if it's the main food your cat eats. Here's why:
- Dry Food and Teeth:
Dry food can sometimes help clean teeth by scraping off plaque, but this effect is limited. It doesn't remove tartar, and if the cat doesn't chew properly, the food can actually stick to the teeth, leading to plaque buildup.
Kibble can also be harder to digest and break down, leading to more food particles staying in the mouth, which can contribute to bacteria growth and gum issues.
- Carbs in Dry Food:
Many dry foods contain carbohydrates, like corn or wheat, which don’t break down as easily in the mouth. These carbs can contribute to plaque and cavities over time.
- Gum Swelling and Infections:
Wet food can sometimes cause more gum irritation if it's not cleaned off the teeth properly, as it can leave a sticky residue. However, dry food does the same if it sticks to the teeth and gums.
If the dry food doesn’t get cleaned off the teeth or if your cat doesn’t drink enough water, it can lead to gum inflammation, which can cause swelling or gingivitis (gum disease).
Tips to Prevent Dental Problems:
- Regular Tooth Brushing: The best way to avoid tooth issues is by brushing your cat’s teeth regularly (using a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for cats).
- Dental Treats or Chews: There are special dental treats designed to help clean your cat's teeth, some with enzymes that reduce plaque.
- Hydration: Make sure your cat drinks enough water to keep the mouth moist and flush out food particles.
