What It Is:
Dental disease, also called periodontal disease, is a progressive condition that affects the teeth and gums of cats. It begins with plaque and tartar buildup, then advances to gum inflammation, infection, tooth loss, and even damage to internal organs if left untreated.
Dental disease is extremely common. More than two thirds of cats over three years old have some degree of dental disease.
🐾 Common Symptoms
Cats rarely show obvious signs of dental pain, but owners may notice:
- Bad breath
- Drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or dropping food
- Bleeding gums
- Red or swollen gums
- Yellow or brown tartar on teeth
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Irritability or hiding
Many cats continue to eat despite severe pain, so regular dental exams are essential.
🦠 Causes and Stages
Dental disease usually progresses through four stages:
- Plaque buildup — Soft, sticky film of bacteria on the teeth
- Tartar formation — Hardened plaque that attaches to the tooth surface
- Gingivitis — Inflammation and redness of the gums
- Periodontitis — Destruction of the ligaments and bone supporting the teeth
Contributing factors include:
- Lack of tooth brushing
- Diet high in soft food
- Genetics
- Feline resorptive lesions
- Poor immune function or chronic illness
🔍 Diagnosis
Dental disease is diagnosed through:
- Physical oral exam by a veterinarian
- Assessment of gum health and tooth integrity
- Dental probing to evaluate periodontal pockets
- Full mouth dental X rays under anesthesia to detect bone loss, resorptive lesions, and root problems
Many issues are not visible without X rays, so complete dental evaluation requires anesthesia.
💊 Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of disease:
- Dental cleaning under anesthesia to remove tartar and plaque
- Extractions for teeth that are loose, infected, or damaged
- Antibiotics if infection is present
- Pain relief medications for recovery and chronic inflammation
- Dental X rays to assess hidden damage
- Follow up care to prevent recurrence
Routine cleanings may be needed every one to three years depending on the cat.
🩺 Prognosis
Prognosis is excellent with early intervention:
- Mild cases improve quickly with cleaning and home care
- Advanced cases may require extractions but most cats recover well
- Left untreated, dental disease can lead to heart, kidney, or liver problems
With consistent care, most cats regain comfort and resume normal eating and grooming.
💡 Cat Owner Note
If your cat has stinky breath or a “dirty” smile, do not wait. Dental disease causes real pain, even if your cat seems fine. A simple cleaning or a few extractions could mean the difference between discomfort and a happy, healthy life.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Disease in Cats
Is dental disease painful for cats?
Yes. It can cause chronic pain even if the cat continues to eat and act normally.
Do cats need regular dental cleanings?
Yes. Most cats benefit from professional cleanings under anesthesia every one to three years.
How can I prevent dental disease?
Brushing your cat’s teeth, feeding dental friendly diets, and using vet approved dental treats can all help.
What if my cat will not let me brush its teeth?
Many cats resist brushing. Alternatives include dental diets, water additives, and regular professional cleanings.
Can dental disease cause other health problems?
Yes. Untreated infections in the mouth can spread bacteria to the heart, kidneys, or liver.
Is anesthesia safe for dental cleanings?
Yes. Modern anesthesia protocols are very safe when performed by trained professionals, especially with pre anesthetic testing.