Common Dental Problems in Cats

Just like humans, our feline friends are susceptible to dental disease if they don't receive the proper oral hygiene care. Often painful for your cat, dental disease is a serious issue that can affect their overall health. Today, our Waxhaw vets explain some common cat teeth problems and what to look out for. 

Your Cat's Dental Health

Your cat's oral health is important to their overall health and wellbeing. Your cat uses their mouth, teeth, and gums to eat and vocalize, so when its oral structures are diseased or damaged they can cause your cat pain and interfere with their ability to eat and communicate. 

Furthermore, your cat's teeth problems can extend beyond their mouth. Dental problems in cats have been linked to heart disease and other organ damage caused by bacteria from untreated infection entering their bloodstream and traveling through their body. 

Signs of Cat Dental Problems That Pet Parents Should Watch For

Specific symptoms will differ between conditions, however, if you notice any of the following behaviors or symptoms, there is a chance that your cat is suffering from dental disease.

Some of the most common symptoms of dental disease in cats can include:

If you notice any of the above symptoms, you should bring your feline friend into our Waxhaw vet office as soon as possible for assessment and treatment. The sooner your cat's dental disease is diagnosed and treated the better for your cat's long-term health.

Dental Diseases Commonly Seen in Cats

While there is a wide range of health issues that can affect your cat's gums, teeth, and other oral structures. Three particularly common conditions to watch out for are: 

Periodontal Disease

• It is estimated that more than half of all cats will develop some form of periodontal disease by the time they reach the age of 3. This disease is an infection caused by bacteria found in plaque—the soft film of bacteria and food debris that builds up on teeth over the course of the day. If your cat's plaque isn't regularly brushed away or cleaned, it will harden and form tartar that extends below their gum line. When this bacteria gets trapped below your cat's gum line and against their teeth, it irritates and erodes the structures supporting your kitty's teeth. If untreated, periodontal disease can cause severe gum infection, loose or missing teeth, and organ damage as the bacteria travels throughout your pet's body.

Stomatitis

• Feline stomatitis is an incredibly painful inflammation and ulceration—opening of sores—of your cat's gums, cheeks, and tongue. Persians and Himalayans are predisposed to developing this condition but any cat can develop stomatitis. Cats suffering from this condition are often in extreme pain and have reduced appetites. In some cases, cats will become malnourished because it is so painful for them to eat. If your cat develops a mild case, at-home care might be enough to treat their stomatitis. But severe cases require surgical intervention.

Tooth Resorption

• Tooth resorption in cats describes the gradual destruction of a tooth or multiple teeth in your cat's mouth. This is a fairly common condition in cats, potentially affecting up to three-quarters of middle-aged and older cats.  When a cat suffers from tooth resorption, their body begins to break down their tooth's hard outer layer, loosening it and causing pain. This destruction occurs below your cat's gum line so it can be challenging to detect without a dental x-ray. However, if your cat suddenly develops a preference for soft foods or swallows their food without chewing, they may be suffering from this condition.

Preventing Dental Issues in Cats

The absolute best way to help prevent the development of dental problems with your cat's teeth is to brush your cat's teeth regularly. Your cat's teeth and gums will have a much better chance of remaining healthy if plaque is brushed or wiped away before it can cause damage or infection.

While this may seem like a difficult task, if you begin the process while your feline friend is young it can become a normal and stress-free part of your cat's daily routine. If your cat won't tolerate you cleaning their teeth, dental treats and foods are also available to help you keep your cat's teeth healthy.

To keep your kitty's teeth in tip-top condition take your pet for a professional dental examination and cleaning once a year. Taking your kitty for a dental appointment is like taking your cat for a routine dentist appointment and will include a thorough examination of your cat's teeth as well as a deep cleaning and possibly X-rays.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding people or pets. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding asthma or other allergy symptoms.