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Study identifies gingivitis risk factors for cats
Cats with orange coats were found to be more at risk of gingivitis.
Wet food diet and not hunting among risk factors found.

A new study has identified factors that increase the risk of pet cats developing gingivitis.

The research looked at data from owner-completed questionnaires and veterinary surgeon-completed oral health scores for 860 cats aged up to six years. All of the cats were enrolled in the Bristol Cats Study, a longitudinal study run by the University of Bristol.

Focusing on cats aged three to four years old, the researchers found that the odds of a cat having gingivitis were higher when fed a wet only or mixed wet diet compared to cats fed a dry diet only.

The data also showed that cats not reported to hunt prey were more likely to have the condition, as were cats with variants of orange in their coat and cats which were reported to dribble whilst being stroked when they were six months old. The sex of the cats was not found to be a risk factor.

The study also found that the prevalence of gingivitis increased with age. While it was found in 24.5 per cent of cats less than 12 months old, 56.3 of cats aged between five and six years old had gingivitis.

The researchers hope the findings will help veterinary surgeons to identify cats at greater risk of gingivitis, allowing them to advise owners about preventative measures.

Jess Williams, lead author of the study, said: “Periodontal disease is one of the most common conditions in cats, potentially causing issues with eating and behaviours like grooming.

“Our study showed that even young cats may have signs of gingivitis, so it is important to discuss and monitor dental health regularly and early on in a cat’s life, especially for those cats who may be more at risk.”

The study, which was funded by BSAVA PetSavers, has been published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice.

Image © Shutterstock

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Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
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APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.