Cat Gum Bleeding at 4-5 Months: Teething Symptom?
Part 1: Reasons for Gum Bleeding in Cats Aged 4 to 5 Months
While it's common for cats to enter the teething phase around 5 months of age, some may experience a delay. If you notice gum bleeding during this time, it's advisable to closely inspect your cat's mouth for signs of redness, loose teeth, or the shedding of milk teeth and the emergence of new ones. If these symptoms are present, gum bleeding in your cat is likely a sign of teething.
Bleeding from the gums due to teething usually occurs in the crevices. If there's bleeding around the gums, it might be because your cat has been fed sharp bones, such as chicken, duck, or quail bones. Chewing on these can cause the gums to be cut, leading to minor bleeding. Generally, these situations result in gum bleeding that stops within a few minutes, and there's no need for excessive worry. However, if the gum wound is large, bleeding heavily, or doesn't stop, it's best to take your cat to a veterinary clinic promptly. It's best for pet owners to avoid feeding cats bones to prevent them from getting stuck in the intestines or cutting the mouth and gastrointestinal tract.
Part 2: Symptoms of Cat Teething
The symptoms of cat teething are quite similar to those in human children. During the 5 to 8month period, you might notice loose milk teeth and the emergence of new ones when you gently open your cat's mouth. Some cats experience teething with minimal discomfort, but others might suffer from symptoms like swollen gums, severe pain, itching, and inflammation. This can lead to excessive drooling, bad breath, biting, gnawing on furniture, and a decrease in appetite.
During the teething phase, cats' gums are particularly fragile and prone to bleeding. It's essential to provide your cat with soft, liquid foods to reduce teething discomfort. Moreover, as cats grow rapidly during this period, their calcium needs increase slightly. You can give your cat highenergy calcium supplements or offer bone broth (without salt), goat's milk, and other calciumrich foods.
For further information on the causes and treatment of gum bleeding in cats, if you have any other concerns or notice additional symptoms, it's recommended to consult a veterinarian or an online pet doctor promptly.