The Classic Comprehensive Handbook of Cat Care
What to Do When Your Cat Is Sick: dental tartar and gingivitis
DENTAL TARTAR
Dental tartar is hard, white, yellow, or brown material on your cat’s teeth.
GINGIVITIS
Red or bleeding gums may be signs of gingivitis. For more information. Gingivitis not responding to home treatment as discussed in these sections needs to be examined by a veterinarian.
Some cats seem abnormally prone to gingivitis, and some cases are difficult (sometimes impossible) to treat successfully even with expert veterinary help.