Caring for a dog isn't easy for many people, is it? In addition to taking care of food and the environment, taking care of physical health, especially dental and gum health, is an important matter that many dog owners shouldn't neglect. This is because the color and characteristics of the mucous membranes can be used to assess the dog's health initially.
It is said that the color and appearance of the mucous membrane are considered a good representative for assessing the animal's initial health because this organ is the most distal tissue that can indicate the state of blood flow and the amount of oxygen that nourishes the body. Since the mucous membrane is a relatively thin area with a large amount of blood vessels, if there is a change in blood flow, we will be able to easily observe it, especially the mucous membrane at the gills.
By checking the health of your puppy's teeth and gums, you can do it in a simple way. Normal gum color is pink. The gums should be moist, not dry or swollen. When you press the gums with your finger and release, the gums should change from white to pink again within 1-2 seconds, which indicates good blood circulation. If it lasts longer, it indicates abnormal blood circulation, which can be caused by many things.
What can the color of your gums tell you?
1. Pale or white gums
It indicates that there is a lower than normal amount of red blood cells nourishing the tissues. This can be caused by many reasons, such as anemia, blood loss or internal bleeding, low blood pressure, dehydration, pain, shock, and various chronic diseases.
2. Yellow gums
Also known as “jaundice,” it is often associated with liver disease and excessive accumulation of bile in the tissues, which cannot be excreted through the liver into the intestines. It can also indicate hemolytic anemia, malnutrition, various infections, and the ingestion of certain toxins.
3. Red gums
Indicates fever, blood infection, high blood pressure, and gingivitis.
4. Dark purple gums
It is often found in animals with respiratory, heart, and blood vessel problems, causing abnormal blood circulation, affecting the amount of oxygen reaching the extremities. There are also other causes, such as taking medications or toxins.
An abnormally colored dog's gums can indicate a number of serious conditions. This should be considered in conjunction with other symptoms and physical examination findings. If you notice your dog's gums are pale and lacking moisture, you should take your dog to a veterinarian immediately to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
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