What It Is
Dental cleaning in cats is a veterinary procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup from your cat’s teeth, helping to prevent or treat gum disease, tooth decay, and oral pain. It’s done under general anesthesia to allow a thorough and stress-free cleaning. Cats don’t exactly say “Ahh” on command.
Professional dental cleanings are essential for long-term oral health and can even help prevent serious conditions like stomatitis, tooth resorption, and systemic infections.
🐾 Why It’s Needed
Cats can’t brush their teeth, and even the best kibble won’t clean below the gumline. Over time, bacteria build up and harden into tartar, leading to:
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Gingivitis
- Painful tooth decay
- Tooth resorption
- Bone loss
- Difficulty eating
- Bacteria entering the bloodstream and affecting organs (e.g., heart, liver, kidneys)
Professional dental cleanings address the problem where a toothbrush can’t reach.
🔍 What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
A professional feline dental cleaning includes:
- Pre-anesthetic bloodwork – to ensure your cat is healthy enough for anesthesia
- General anesthesia – keeps your cat still, pain-free, and safe during the procedure
- Full-mouth dental exam – including probing for pockets around teeth
- Dental X-rays – to check roots and bone below the gumline
- Ultrasonic scaling – to remove plaque and tartar
- Polishing – to smooth the tooth surface and prevent future buildup
- Tooth extractions (if needed) – for damaged, infected, or resorbed teeth
- Pain management and recovery monitoring
The procedure usually takes 30–90 minutes, depending on severity.
💊 Aftercare and Recovery
Most cats recover quickly from a routine dental cleaning. Your vet will provide:
- Pain medication if extractions were done
- Antibiotics in some cases
- Special diet (soft food or prescription dental diet)
- At-home care tips (like brushing or oral rinses, if tolerated)
Mild grogginess or appetite changes are common for 12–24 hours after anesthesia. Contact your vet if your cat seems overly drowsy, refuses to eat, or has swelling or bleeding.
🩺 How Often Do Cats Need Dental Cleaning?
The ideal frequency varies, but many vets recommend annual cleanings starting at age 3–5, especially for:
- Cats with early signs of periodontal disease
- Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Persians, Himalayans)
- Cats prone to plaque or resorption
- Cats with stomatitis or chronic mouth pain
Cats who get routine cleanings need fewer extractions and often avoid more painful, expensive issues later.
💡 Cat Owner Note
A professional dental cleaning isn’t just about fresh breath. It can literally add years to your cat’s life. Don’t let fear of anesthesia stop you from asking your vet about it. Most cats handle it beautifully and come home more comfortable than before.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Dental Cleaning
Is dental cleaning safe for cats?
Yes, when done under veterinary supervision with proper anesthesia protocols. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork reduces the risk further.
Why does my cat need anesthesia for a cleaning?
Because cats won’t tolerate a thorough cleaning while awake, and trying could be painful and traumatic. Anesthesia allows safe scaling, probing, and X-rays without stress.
How much does cat dental cleaning cost?
Costs range from $300 to $800+, depending on your location, whether X-rays or extractions are needed, and your vet’s setup.
Do cats really need dental X-rays?
Yes. Many dental problems (like root infections and tooth resorption) happen below the gumline, invisible without X-rays.
What happens if I skip dental care?
Untreated dental disease can lead to chronic pain, tooth loss, infection, and even damage to the kidneys, heart, or liver.
Can I brush my cat’s teeth at home?
Yes! Daily brushing is the gold standard (if your cat allows it). Alternatives include dental treats, water additives, or oral rinses.
Will insurance cover a dental cleaning?
Some pet insurance plans cover cleanings if they’re part of a health plan or necessary due to disease. Check your policy for details.