Did you know that bad breath can be one of the first signs of dental or gum disease in cats? If your Manx has bad breath then you may want to have your vet exam the cat’s teeth and gums and check for gingivitis. Gingivitis is a type of gum disease that causes inflammation and irritation to the gums. It is one of the first stages of periodontal disease and other infections related to areas around the teeth and gums. Gingivitis occurs when plaque or food and debris builds up on the gums. Advanced gingivitis occurs when plaque plus a calculus build up is present on the gums causing severe redness, irritation, and inflammation. Inflammation or redness of the gums can also signal the beginning stages of infection. If caught early, gingivitis can be treated and possibly reversed. Talk with your vet Oshawa, ON for more details.