Gingivitis in Cats and Dogs: 5 Top Natural Remedies

Gingivitis in our dogs and cats can be sneaky. You might notice some redness along the gum line, bad breath, or mild discomfort, but there are natural remedies you can use to help manage it. Today, I’ll walk you through five remedies I recommend for pets—and even show you how to use them safely.

One formula, total care: Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline Health Formula 

Keep your cat happy, healthy, and purring with ease—and for full-body support, I recommend Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline Health Formula. This all-natural supplement promotes digestive health, mobility, immune strength, and a shiny coat, helping your cat age gracefully and enjoy a happier, more active life. Mix it with their food or a treat, and give your feline friend the holistic support they deserve.

Meet Murray: My Middle-Aged Cat

Murray is a clean guy who takes pride in his appearance, but even he isn’t immune to gingivitis. When I looked inside his mouth, I noticed moderate redness just above the gum line—a classic sign of gingivitis. He’s a middle-aged cat, so this is pretty typical, and honestly, that’s about as much cooperation as I could get from him that day!

1. Green Tea Rinse

Green tea isn’t just for humans—it can help pets too. I brew about two cups using one tablespoon of fresh green tea leaves in hot water, let it steep for 20 minutes, and then use it as a rinse.

• For pets: Squirt it gently into the side of their mouth or use a finger to swish it along the gums.

• For humans: Simply rinse and swish for 20–30 seconds, then spit.

Green tea has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help reduce gum redness and discomfort.

2. Essential Oils

Certain essential oils can support gum health, but you need to be careful with pets, especially cats.

• Avoid oils like tea tree, which can be toxic.

• Mild oils like peppermint or lemon oil can be added to green tea or water for a gentle rinse.

• Use only topically, never let pets ingest them directly.

Just like green tea, these rinses help decrease inflammation and keep gums healthier.

3. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera is safe for pets to ingest and works wonderfully as a topical gum treatment.

• Apply a small amount along the gum line using your finger.

• The gel’s anti-inflammatory and soothing properties help calm irritation.

Even cats like Murray can tolerate it surprisingly well—it’s sticky but easy to apply.

4. Coconut Oil + Licorice Tincture

For pets with recurring ulcers or severe gum inflammation (stomatitis), a combination of coconut oil and licorice tincture can be beneficial:

• Mix a small amount of licorice tincture with coconut oil to create a paste.

• Apply it gently to inflamed areas of the gums.

Coconut oil has antibacterial, antiviral, and mild anti-inflammatory properties, while licorice supports oral tissue healing. This combo is particularly helpful for autoimmune-related mouth inflammation.

5. Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone)

Coenzyme Q10 is a natural compound found in cells that supports energy production and tissue repair, especially in areas with high energy demand like the mouth.

• Typical dose for pets: 1 mg per pound of body weight daily.

  • Example: A 10-pound cat would get about 10 mg.

• Capsules can be broken up and mixed with food if needed.

It can be an excellent oral supplement to help pets with recurring gingivitis, but palatability is key—you may need to hide it in food for finicky pets like Murray!

The Takeaway

Gingivitis doesn’t have to be scary. With these natural remedies—green tea rinses, mild essential oils, aloe vera gel, coconut oil + licorice tincture, and Coenzyme Q10—you can support your pet’s oral health safely at home. Always start slowly, observe your pet’s tolerance, and consult a veterinarian if inflammation persists or worsens.

If you want to learn more, I’ve got a free book packed with natural remedies to help heal your pets at home. Click the link below to grab your copy and start caring for your furry family members naturally.

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