Author TB Thompson DVM has been a licensed, practicing veterinarian since 2000.

Dealing with your cat’s dental disease starts with professional veterinary care. While it can be worrisome, timely treatment – often involving anesthesia and tooth extractions – significantly improves your cat’s quality of life, outweighing the risks and costs.

KEY POINTS

  • Most cats suffer from periodontal disease which requires professional treatment.
  • Signs of dental disease include bad breath, swollen gums, and eating changes.
  • Preventive care including daily brushing, special diets, and vet check-ups is key for dental health.

Periodontal Disease is a Common Cat Problem

Did you know that periodontal disease affects over 70% of cats? (1

This condition starts with plaque – a mix of bacteria and food debris on teeth. Without treatment, plaque turns into tartar, causing gingivitis (inflamed gums). Gingivitis can then progress to periodontitis, a serious stage that irreversibly damages the gums and bones around the teeth. 

Cats are good at hiding pain, so they might not show obvious signs of dental problems. 

As a veterinarian, I often see how this painful condition goes unnoticed by cat owners. The best treatment includes anesthesia. This will allow for a thorough dental check, x-rays and tooth extractions if needed. Although some owners worry about anesthesia, the risks are low compared to the huge improvement in your cat’s life after treatment.

Illustration of a cartoon cat holding a paw over its mouth with pain lines emanating.

Recognizing the Signs of Dental Disease in Cats

Identifying dental issues in your cat early can make a huge difference in their treatment and recovery. Here are key signs to watch for:

  1. Bad Breath: While a bit of ‘cat breath’ is normal, excessively foul breath can be a sign of dental disease.
  2. Red or Swollen Gums and Lips: Look for any redness or swelling in the gums. These can be early signs of gingivitis or occasionally oral tumors. You may also see lip inflammation.
  3. Changes in Eating Habits: If your cat is suddenly hesitant to eat, especially dry food, or seems to chew awkwardly, it could indicate oral pain.
  4. Pawing at the Mouth: Cats with dental discomfort may frequently paw at their mouth or rub their face against objects.
  5. Visible Tartar on Teeth: Tartar, a yellow or brown coating on the teeth near the gums, is a clear indicator of dental issues.
  6. Drooling: Excessive drooling, especially if it’s tinged with blood, can be a sign of oral pain or dental disease.
  7. Weight Loss or Poor Condition: In severe cases, dental pain can lead to weight loss or a decline in overall condition due to reduced food intake.

Remember, cats are masters at hiding pain, so even subtle changes in behavior are worth noting. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to consult your vet for a thorough dental check-up. Early detection and treatment can prevent more serious complications.

Vet Care for Cats with Dental Disease

This section describes the most common routines when cats receive dental treatment from a veterinarian. Knowing what your cat will experience can help calm your anxieties. Here’s what the process typically involves:

Pre-Procedure

  • Drop-Off: You’ll drop your cat off at the vet clinic the morning of the procedure. Your cat needs to be fasted to lower the risk of vomiting while anesthetized.
  • Health Check: The vet conducts diagnostic tests and a physical exam to identify any undetected health problems.

During the Procedure

  • Anesthesia Plan: The vet formulates an anesthesia and dental treatment plan.
  • Mouth Examination: Under anesthesia, the vet conducts a thorough examination of the cat’s mouth.
  • Dental Radiographs: X-rays are taken to assess the dental condition accurately.

Treatment

  • Dental Work: This may include extractions, treatments for specific oral issues, plus cleaning and polishing of teeth. This part may take anywhere from half an hour to several hours depending on your cat’s dental condition.
  • Recovery from Anesthesia: After the procedure, your cat is carefully monitored as it wakes up from anesthesia.

Post-Procedure

  • Home Recovery: Once fully recovered, your cat can go home. They might be groggy for 6-24 hours but usually return to normal soon.
  • Medications: The vet may provide antibiotics or pain medication, along with special care instructions.
  • Follow-Up: You’ll be advised on when to bring your cat back for a recheck and when to start home dental care.

Each veterinary clinic has a unique approach to dental procedures. Ask for a review of the treatment and what to expect afterward.

Chloe the Cat’s Experience with Dental Care

Maybe you can relate to a story shared by one of our readers about their 9-year-old cat, Chloe. 

Initially, Chloe’s caretaker dismissed a mouth sore and bad breath as normal aging signs. But a vet visit revealed several hidden problems, including severe tartar build-up and tooth resorption. Chloe was anesthetized, radiographed and had her teeth cleaned. The vet ended up extracting 5 diseased teeth! 

Much to the owner’s surprise, after the procedure, Chloe’s energy and playfulness remarkably improved. It was only then that they realized how much pain she had been in due to dental disease.

This story serves as a good reminder: don’t overlook changes in your cat’s behavior or dismiss bad breath as just ‘cat breath.’ Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential. 

As the owner learned, “Cat dentistry isn’t a scam! It made a huge difference in my cat’s quality of life.” 

Preventive Dental Care for Cats

Effective dental care starts with an anesthetized dental procedure at one year of age, including x-rays and cleaning. After this, regular preventive measures are key to maintaining your cat’s dental health. Here’s a breakdown of recommended practices and products:

Preventive MeasureExamples / DescriptionPurpose
ToothbrushingUse a soft toothbrush, with pet toothpaste or just waterDaily brushing removes plaque before it hardens
Dental DietsPrescription Diet Feline t/d®, Hill’s Healthy Advantage™ Oral+ for CatsFormulated to slow plaque buildup
Water AdditivesHealthymouth® Water Additive for CatsHelps reduce plaque buildup
Oral Hygiene TreatsFeline Greenies® Feline Dental TreatsAssists in cleaning teeth, reducing plaque

Please note that if your cat already has dental disease you should consult your vet before starting any new dental care routine. 

For more information on approved dental care products, visit the Veterinary Oral Health Council at VOHC. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection and treatment of oral disease.

FAQs

How do I know if my cat is in pain from dental disease?

Signs of pain in cats include bad breath, red or swollen gums, reluctance to eat, pawing at the mouth, drooling, and changes in behavior. Many cats don’t show obvious signs of pain. However, it’s common for owners to notice signs of pain relief after their cat’s dental disease is treated.

Will my cat be able to eat if they have teeth pulled?

Yes, cats can eat normally after having teeth pulled, often with pain relief and a temporary soft food diet. Even cats with no teeth can eat with minimal problems!

How much does it cost for a cat dental procedure?

The cost of a cat dental procedure varies, typically ranging from $300 to $1,000+, depending on the complexity and necessary treatments like x-rays, extractions, and anesthesia.

  1. Lommer, M. J., & Verstraete, F. J. (2001). Radiographic patterns of periodontitis in cats: 147 cases (1998–1999). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 218(2), 230-234.