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My cat has gingivitis. Will brushing or water additives help?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 3 years old | 5 lbs

Whenever I've taken my cat to the vet, they mention that he has gingivitis. He does need a cleaning which I intend to do, but I'm still saving money for it since they need blood work on him. How well will brushing his teeth with cat toothpaste help him? Is it safe to use water additives for his teeth and breath?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 10th, 2017

Once your kitty had his dental cleaning , brushing his teeth with enzymatic tooth paste will prevent the build up of tartar and gingivitis. Brushing his teeth while he still has the excessive tartar will not remove it and also hurt the gums, as the gingivitis is painful. You can use water additives, but in my opinion they do not do much for the breath and his teeth. The bad breath is caused by bacteria in the tartar and below the gums. It will go away as soon as the teeth are cleaned.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on August 3rd, 2017
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums around the teeth. In cats, it can be quite serious and cause significant pain. Sometimes a dental cleaning to remove the tartar from the teeth will cure the problem, but in some cats it becomes a recurring issue that needs more aggressive treatment. In the worse cases, we will remove all the teeth in an effort to make the cat more comfortable. If Tyson has never had a dental cleaning by a veterinarian before, it is probably about time. Pets aren't as prone to dental disease as humans since they don't eat much sugar, but if they can still produce tartar. Routine brushing of your cat's teeth can prevent some of the tartar buildup, but it will not be able to remove what is there. If you would like to confirm your vet's diagnosis of gingivitis, I recommend taking Tyson to a second vet for examination.
Here is a good article: https://www.petcoach.co/article/6-things-every-dog-owner-should-know-about-dental-care
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My cat has gingivitis. What are the best at-home dental care options?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Jackie. If she has gingivitis or redness along her gum margins, she should go under anesthesia to have her teeth professional cleaned. Red gums indicate an infection in the mouth. This is actually more problematic than tartar accumulating on the teeth. Gingivitis leads to bad breath and a destruction of the attachment of the teeth. If left untreated, this can lead to chronic pain in the mouth and the eventual loss of teeth. As far as at home care, I like Maxiguard Gel as it is easier than brushing a cat's teeth. You want to look for products with the VOHC seal as these are approved for use by veterinary dentists. These products can really make a big difference for Jackie's oral health and her overall quality of life. I hope this information helps!

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My cat has gingivitis. Is brushing her teeth at home safe?

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Cassie. I think it's a great idea for you to start brushing her teeth, and that can help with the gingivitis. Be sure to use a pet toothpaste, as human ones are toxic for cats. You can get a pet toothbrush and paste at a pet store. I'd brush her teeth three times a week. I hope this helps!

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Is Dental Fresh water additive safe for my senior cat with kidney disease?

It is great to hear Gracie is doing a little better! Brushing can be a help to reduce plaque levels but will not remove any solid tartar on the teeth. I would be cautious about using water additives containing sodium bicarbonate in a cat with dental disease as compromised kidneys can have difficulty in regulating acid balance in the blood. I recommend you do not use until this can be checked with the manufacturer as to levels and safety for cats with kidney disease.Once she is more stable it may be possible to perform a short dental procedure with intravenous fluids and short acting anesthetic in order to remove the source of pain and discomfort from her mouth

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Can I cure my cat's gingivitis at home, or does it need a vet?

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