8 Dental Problems To Look Out For in Cats

Looking after your cat's teeth is crucial to their overall health. The best way to make sure all is well is to organise routine check-ups with your vet. Research shows that various forms of dental disease are often the main cause of more serious health problems in cats. In fact, around 70% of older cats suffer from some sort of dental problem that requires veterinary treatment.

Kittens lose their baby teeth between 4 to 6 months old when their permanent teeth emerge. Adult cats have 30 teeth including canines, incisors, pre-molars, and molars. Once adult teeth have come through, regular dental check-ups become essential. Dental problems can cause significant pain, leading a cat to stop eating and suffer stress and discomfort. If left untreated, dental disease can sometimes be fatal. Here are 8 specific dental problems to watch out for.

1. Plaque

Plaque is a sticky layer of food particles and bacteria that collects along the gum line. If not cleaned away, saliva mixes with plaque and it hardens into tartar. Feeding dry food can help reduce plaque, but if there is a substantial build-up, it is important to have your vet examine your cat’s teeth. Unchecked plaque can lead to further dental issues and impact overall health.

2. Tartar Build-up

Tartar is hardened plaque that irritates the gums, causing inflammation known as gingivitis. Cats rarely get cavities, but tartar build-up is a common cause of gum disease. Both gingivitis and more severe gum diseases are preventable with regular removal of plaque through good dental care.

3. Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the mildest, yet reversible form of periodontal disease, causing red, swollen, and sometimes bleeding gums. It can affect one tooth or spread to several teeth. If untreated, infection can advance to ligaments and bones that support teeth, leading to tooth loosening or loss. Bacteria can also enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting vital organs like the liver and kidneys.

4. Periodontal Disease

This condition is more severe and difficult to treat than gingivitis. It involves irreversible damage to the tissues supporting teeth and is extremely painful. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to slow progression and improve your cat's comfort and health.

5. Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions (FORLs)

Common in older cats, FORLs appear as painful cavities usually found where the gum meets the tooth, often affecting lower premolars. The cause remains unknown. Your vet will likely take X-rays to decide whether to remove affected teeth to relieve pain and prevent infection.

6. Lost or Fractured Teeth

If your cat sneezes a lot, paws at its face, or rubs its face on furniture, it could indicate a fractured tooth. Infection from a broken tooth can cause swelling near the eye or jaw, making eating painful and difficult. Prompt veterinary treatment is essential to prevent worsening and maintain your cat’s wellbeing.

7. Stomatitis

Stomatitis is a painful, potentially life-threatening condition causing severe inflammation of the mouth and gums, often with bad breath. It can affect any cat breed but is more common in certain breeds such as Himalayans, Somalis, Persians, and other oriental short- and long-haired breeds. The infection can quickly spread to the throat, making swallowing food or water very difficult.

8. Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is sadly quite common, mostly affecting middle-aged and older cats, though younger cats can also develop it. Tumours may form in teeth, soft tissue, or jawbones. Early diagnosis and swift treatment are critical to slow the cancer’s progression and preserve quality of life.

What To Look Out For

Monitoring your cat’s mouth regularly can help catch dental issues early, which is crucial for their overall health. Watch for these symptoms:

• Bad breath
• Missing or broken teeth
• Teeth that are yellow, brown, or black
• Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
• Receding gums
• Drooling
• Blood in saliva
• Loss of appetite or decreased appetite
• Weight loss

Some signs can be subtle, so regular veterinary check-ups are key for early detection and treatment. Your vet can also advise on suitable cat food and dental treats to support oral health and help prevent future problems.

Conclusion

Leaving dental problems untreated can lead to serious health complications for your cat, as bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and damage vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. Preventive measures include selecting appropriate food, offering dental treats, and most importantly, scheduling regular dental examinations with your vet. Responsible oral care significantly improves your cat’s quality of life and longevity.