Gingival Hyperplasia in Dogs and Cats: When Gum Tissue Grows Too Much

Close-up of a dog's teeth showing thickened, overgrown gum tissue characteristic of gingival hyperplasia

Gingival hyperplasia is a condition where a dog or cat’s gum tissue grows thicker and taller than it should, creating pockets that trap bacteria and debris. This article explains what causes it, which breeds are most affected, why it matters, and what treatment and home care look like.