Sometimes, it can be hard to tell when something is wrong with your pet. They may seem perfectly normal, then suddenly collapse. A delayed reaction to an electrical shock, ingested poison, an allergic reaction, even heart disease may not be immediately evident to owners.
Your pet’s gums may be a clue to the problem. Normally, the gums should be a healthy pink. Any other color should be a warning sign — and you should call your vet immediately.
White (extremely pale) gums are signs of shock. Just like in humans, shock is a condition that occurs when the body isn’t getting enough oxygen. Shock is often caused by blood loss, but can also be caused by heart failure, blood infection, and severe trauma. With shock usually comes low blood sugar; you can help combat this by rubbing honey or Karo syrup on the pet’s gums to help get some glucose back into their systems.
White gums can also be a sign of anemia.
Blue gum color can be a sign of suffocation or smoke inhalation. In both cases, it is the lack of oxygen that causes the color change. Your pet may need help breathing until you reach the vet for treatment.
Very red gums can be a sign of heatstroke. Heatstroke happens when the body can’t keep itself cool by normal means — in dogs, by panting; in cats by licking and fluffing their fur.
Red gums can also be a sign of carbon monoxide poisoning. Just like in humans, carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal. The only antidote is oxygen therapy, to help the body get rid of the bad gasses. Immediate vet attention is essential.
Yellow gums, like jaundice in humans, are a sign of liver problems.
If your pet’s gums are any color other than a healthy pink you should call your vet immediately. Describe the color, describe any other symptoms, and see what the vet says. Quick action in an emergency can save your pet’s life.