Why are my cat's gums covering his teeth? Is it painful and needs treatment?

Question

I took my cat Buddy to the vet today for problems he was having with his mouth. The vet said he had enlarged gums, which were so badly enlarged that they were covering his top teeth. His bottom teeth are getting caught on his top lip from this. I just wanted a second opinion. Could this cause him any pain, is it something you would recommend having removed? He seemed to be in pain after he was brought home. He's never had any other health problems before so this worries me. Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 9 years and 2 months old | 17 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Yes, this definitely would cause pain, and I would recommend treatment for it. What's actually happening is that he is likely experiencing tooth resorption, which makes it look like gum line is growing over the tooth. It would also cause him difficulty eating, and he may lose weight from not being able to eat normally. This is a very painful condition in cats which does require treatment, so I would do the treatment your vet recommends.

Why are my cat's gums covering his teeth? Is it painful and needs treatment?

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