05/10/2026
Your cat’s gums can tell you more than you might think.
A quick look at gum colour may provide an important clue that something is wrong:
1) Pink gums are generally a healthy sign.
2) Very pale or white gums may indicate anaemia, blood loss or another underlying condition.
3) Yellow gums can indicate jaundice caused by increased bilirubin and may be associated with haemolysis, liver disease, bile duct obstruction or other serious conditions.
For cats with FeLV or FIV, checking the gums can be particularly useful because anaemia and other complications may develop as the disease progresses.
Also watch for changes such as lethargy, poor appetite, weight loss, recurrent infections or problems in the mouth.
🚨 Very pale or yellow gums can be an emergency. If you notice either, especially together with weakness, difficulty breathing, collapse, poor appetite or other signs of illness, contact your veterinarian immediately.
A few seconds checking your cat’s gums could help you notice an important change early.