Pink gums are one of the signs that your dog is healthy. In a healthy dog, the color of their gums should be anywhere between soft to dark pink. However, due to normal pigmentation, the color of the gums can turn black. Vets from the Virginia Beach animal hospital suggest that dog parents check if their dog is healthy through a simple oral assessment.
Look for the area underneath their tongue or lighter spots on gums. These areas should be moist and pinkish. Now, gentle press the pink area of the gums. The gums should turn white and turn pink after a few seconds.
In case your dog’s gums are white or pale, they could be suffering from some medical conditions. If you notice your dog’s nose or tongue, which is ordinarily pinkish, has turned pale, you must consult your veterinarian.
If your dog is suffering from a medical condition, other signs that may be visible besides pale gums are bleeding, weakness, and lethargy.
Possible causes of pale gums in your dogs
Diseases Causing Anemia
Anemia is one of the most common causes of pale gums in dogs. Anemia is a medical condition in which the red blood cells count in the body depletes. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to the body. A decrease in the numbers of red blood cells can make the body cells deprived of oxygen. In the absence of enough oxygen, the body cells may die.
Anemia is a symptom of an illness that causes damage to the red blood cells. Diseases of the kidney, immune system, or parasitic infections can impede red blood cells’ production and cause anemia.
Blood Loss
Blood loss due to injury or disease is another common cause of pale gums. When there is a subsequent loss of blood from the body, the dog can develop anemia. Decreased blood flow to the mucous membranes can give a pale appearance to the gums. External or internal injury, trauma, and certain diseases may lead to blood loss in your dog. If your dog passes blood in their stool or vomit or has visible injuries, take them to Virginia Beach vet hospitalfor medical intervention.
Hemolysis
Hemolysis of red blood cells can occur due to various reasons. Hemolysis could result from cancer, exposure to toxins, poisoning, babesiosis, or autoimmune disorder.
What to Do if Your Dog Has Pale Gums
While conducting a regular medical assessment on your pet, you notice your dog’s gums are looking pale or bleeding; you should check for other signs of illness. If you suspect your dog is not as active and playful as usual, you should consult your vet.
What are the Treatments for Pale Gums in Dogs?
Before devising a treatment plan for pale gums in your dog, the vet will first examine its root cause. To check the possible underlying cause, the vet may suggest blood tests and examination of internal organs. If your dog is experiencing pale gums due to blood loss, the vet may recommend a blood transfusion.