Common Feline Dental Diseases: What Every Cat Owner Should Know

26 Sep Common Feline Dental Diseases: What Every Cat Owner Should Know

Maintaining your cat’s dental health is critical to ensuring their overall well-being. Dental diseases in cats are common, painful, and often lead to more serious health problems if not treated early. Here’s a guide to some of the most prevalent feline dental diseases, their symptoms, and what you can do to prevent and address them.

1. Periodontal Disease (Including Gingivitis)

Periodontal disease is the most common dental issue in cats, particularly in those over the age of three. It begins with gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque and tartar buildup. Left untreated, gingivitis can develop into full-blown periodontal disease, affecting the bones and tissues supporting the teeth. Chronic inflammation can even cause the body to push teeth out, most notably the canine teeth, which can appear to get “longer” as they are gradually expelled from the mouth.

Symptoms:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Difficulty eating or chewing
• Loose teeth or tooth loss
• Canine teeth appearing longer or protruding

Prevention:

Daily brushing and other oral home care, professional cleanings, and specialized dental diets can help prevent periodontal disease. Regular vet check-ups are crucial for early detection and management.

2. Feline Tooth Resorption

Tooth resorption is a painful condition where the tooth begins to break down, often starting below the gum line. It’s a very common dental disease in cats, affecting more than 50% of adults. Without treatment, the affected teeth deteriorate, causing significant pain.

Symptoms:

• Trouble chewing, especially on one side of the mouth
• Dropping food
• Pawing at the mouth
• Loss of appetite or weight loss

Treatment:

Diagnosis usually requires dental X-rays to detect damage beneath the gums. The affected teeth typically need to be extracted to relieve pain and prevent further damage.

3. Broken Teeth (Especially Upper Canines)

Broken teeth, particularly the upper canine teeth, are a frequent problem in cats, often caused by trauma such as chewing on hard objects or jumping down from high places and hitting their chin on the floor. This kind of impact can fracture the teeth, exposing the sensitive pulp inside and leading to pain or infection if left untreated.

Symptoms:

• Obvious cracks or chips in the teeth
• Discoloration of a tooth
• Drooling or bleeding from the mouth
• Difficulty eating or chewing
• Swelling around the mouth

Treatment:

If your cat has a broken tooth, it’s essential to see a veterinarian promptly. Treatment usually involves extraction or a root canal, depending on the severity of the break and the age of the cat. Regularly check for broken teeth, especially after a fall or jump from a high surface.

4. Stomatitis

Stomatitis is a chronic, painful inflammation of the mouth’s soft tissues, including the gums, tongue, and cheeks. It’s an immune response where the body reacts excessively to plaque and bacteria, causing severe discomfort. Cats with stomatitis may struggle to eat and groom themselves due to the pain.

Symptoms:

• Excessive drooling
• Refusing to eat or difficulty eating
• Weight loss
• Bad breath
• Blood-tinged saliva or visible oral sores

Treatment:

Managing stomatitis can be complicated and sometimes frustrating.  It involves extraction of some or all of the teeth, frequent professional cleanings if teeth remain, medications and supplements to control inflammation, pain, and modulate the immune system, and can also include other treatments like LASER ablation and stem cell therapy. 

5. Feline Oral Tumors

Although less common than other dental issues, oral tumors in cats can be aggressive and are often malignant, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most prevalent. These tumors can grow rapidly, invading surrounding tissues, including bones and gums, leading to serious health problems.  The most common type of oral tumor in cats is squamous cell carcinoma. 

Symptoms:

• A visible lump or mass in the mouth or swelling of the jaw.
• Difficulty eating or chewing
• Drooling or bleeding from the mouth
• Weight loss
• Bad breath

Treatment:

Treatment options depend on the tumor’s size and location, but they can include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Early detection is crucial, so regular oral exams by your vet are important for catching potential issues early.

Tips for Preventing Feline Dental Diseases

1. Brush Your Cat’s Teeth Regularly: Regular brushing with cat-friendly toothpaste helps reduce plaque buildup and prevent periodontal disease.
2. Routine Vet Visits: Annual or bi-annual dental check-ups can help catch dental problems before they become serious.
3. Dental Treats and Toys: Provide your cat with dental chews or toys that help reduce plaque and tartar naturally.
4. Monitor Eating Habits: Watch for any changes in your cat’s eating behavior. Dropping food, favoring one side while chewing, or refusing to eat can all signal dental pain.

Conclusion

Maintaining your cat’s dental health is essential for their overall well-being. Regular at-home care, combined with routine veterinary dental check-ups, can help prevent many of the common dental diseases cats face. If you notice any signs of discomfort or oral problems in your cat, such as bad breath, drooling, or changes in eating habits, consult your veterinarian right away. Early intervention can make a world of difference in keeping your cat healthy and pain-free.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (9/26/2024) Image by Alexa from Pixabay