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Why does my senior cat have pale gums, mouth pain, low platelets?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | 11 years and 4 months old | 12 lbs

Hello, my cat saw the vet 3 wks ago; x-rays, basic blood test. Maybe a mistake but the plaquettes were low. She has pale gums and seems to have pain in her mouth but shows appetite only for can. Could it be an early stage of FeLv ? She is 11.

1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on February 14th, 2018

Felv is most commonly seen in kittens and young cats. She could have FIV but I expect she was already tested for it. This could be due to cancer or an autoimmune disease. It also may not be clinically important. I would continue with feeding canned food and have a follow up blood panel and have them check her teeth then. She may need a dental cleaning or antibiotics for the gingivitis. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Gazou.

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