Feline Dental Disease: A Comprehensive Overview

Dental disease is a common health issue in cats, affecting between 50 and 90% of cats older than four years¹.

The three most common dental diseases in cats are gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth resorption¹.

These conditions can cause serious discomfort and impact a cat’s quality of life¹.

Symptoms

The symptoms of dental disease in cats can vary but often include:

1. Bad breath (halitosis)²³⁴
2. Excessive drooling²⁴
3. Weight loss²³
4. Difficulty with or slow eating²
5. Red, inflamed gums⁴
6. Bleeding gums⁴

In many cases, dental disease can cause a cat to stop eating, which leads to a variety of health problems¹.

Causes

Dental disease in cats is usually the result of a buildup of plaque, a film that harbors bacteria, on the teeth¹⁵.

Factors that can contribute to the development of dental disease include:

1. Tooth alignment⁶
2. Diet⁶
3. Infectious diseases⁶
4. Lack of oral dental care⁶
5. Age³

When plaque is not regularly removed, it migrates deeper toward where the gums meet the base of the tooth, causing inflammation referred to as gingivitis¹⁵.

If left untreated, this can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease⁵.

Effects

Dental disease in cats can cause serious pain and discomfort, which can impact a cat’s quality of life¹⁷.

In many cases, dental disease causes a cat to stop eating, which leads to a variety of health problems¹.

Severe dental disease can lead to bone infection, tooth loss, and oral bacteria entering the bloodstream through diseased oral tissues, affecting other organs as well⁸.

Treatment

Treatment for dental disease in cats depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause¹⁹³.

Common treatments include:

1. Home dental care: This includes daily tooth brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste⁹.
2. Professional dental cleaning: This involves descaling with an ultrasonic dental descaling machine⁹.
3. Antibiotics: These may be prescribed to fight infection³.
4. Tooth extraction: Severely diseased teeth are often extracted⁹⁷.

It’s important to consult with a veterinarian for the appropriate treatment plan for your cat.

Conclusion

Dental disease in cats is a serious health issue that requires attention.

Regular dental care, both at home and professionally, can help prevent these conditions and ensure your cat maintains a healthy and happy life.

Always consult with your veterinarian if you notice any changes in your cat’s oral health.

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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice or diagnosis provided by your veterinarian. If your cat shows symptoms, please consult your veterinarian immediately.