Vetnews | November 2025 44 « BACK TO CONTENTS Regulars I Dental Column Gingival enlargement is clinically observed as the overgrowth of gingival tissue, covering more of the tooth surface than normal. In contrast, gingival hyperplasia is a histopathological diagnosis, characterised by increased fibroblast proliferation, excessive collagen deposition, reduced apoptosis in gingival fibroblasts, and altered extracellular matrix composition (Beckman). Gingival hyperplasia is uncommon in cats but does occur. The causes and the differences between dogs and cats are summarised in Table 1. In the past year, we received two cats with severe gingival enlargement (Fig. 1). On presentation, affected cats may show any of the following clinical signs: • Halitosis • Hypersalivation • Discomfort or pain while chewing • Gingival enlargement covering teeth During oral examination, the gingiva often appears firm, lobulated, and sometimes erythematous. Owners may report reluctance to chew, dropping food, or changes in grooming behaviour. Gingival enlargement (hyperplasia) in cats By Prof Gerhard Steenkamp and Dr Mareli van de Wetering Cause Dogs Cats Chronic inflammation / periodontal disease Very common – long-standing plaque and calculus lead to fibroblastic gingival overgrowth. The most common cause, chronic periodontitis/ gingivitis, stimulates gingival thickening. Idiopathic / breed predisposition Well recognised – Boxers (classic), Collies, Great Danes, Dobermans, Dalmatians, Bulldogs. Rare – reported in some breeds (e.g., Siamese), but not as strongly established as in dogs. Neoplastic mimics/ differentials Important to rule out: peripheral odontogenic fibroma, acanthomatous ameloblastoma, SCC, melanoma. Very important – oral squamous cell carcinoma is common; also fibrosarcoma, lymphoma, and odontogenic tumours. Drug-induced Common – cyclosporine, calcium channel blockers (amlodipine, nifedipine, diltiazem), phenytoin (rare). Rare – occasional reports with cyclosporine; little evidence for other drugs. Table 1. Causes of Gingival Hyperplasia in Dogs and Cats Figure 1. Clinical presentation of a cat with gingival enlargement, affecting mainly the rostral teeth (Photo credit: Dr Suzette Greubel – Greenside Animal Hospital).
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