Common Dental Problems in Cats

Your Cat’s Oral Health

Your cat’s oral health plays a vital role in their overall health and wellbeing. Cats rely on their teeth, gums, and mouth to eat, groom, and communicate. When dental structures become damaged or diseased, your cat can suffer pain that interferes with eating and normal behavior.

Oral infections and bacteria don’t stay in the mouth. Left untreated, dental disease can allow bacteria to spread through the bloodstream, potentially affecting organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. Over time, these complications can seriously impact your cat’s health and longevity.

Signs & Symptoms of Dental Disease in Cats

Every cat is different, but if you notice any of the following signs, it could mean your cat is struggling with a dental issue:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Loose or missing teeth
• Visible tartar buildup
• Swollen, bleeding, or red gums
• Pawing at the mouth or teeth
• Difficulty eating or chewing slowly
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Excessive drooling
  
  

If your cat shows any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment at Good Mojo Pet Care in River Hills. The earlier dental disease is diagnosed and treated, the sooner your cat can find relief and avoid long-term health problems.

Common Dental Diseases in Cats

Periodontal Disease

Up to 70% of cats will develop periodontal disease by the age of three. This bacterial infection is caused by plaque — the soft film of food and bacteria that collects on teeth. Without regular cleaning, plaque hardens into tartar that extends below the gum line.

Once bacteria get trapped under the gums, they damage the tissues that support the teeth. Untreated periodontal disease can cause painful infection, tooth loss, and even organ damage as bacteria spread through the body.

Stomatitis

Feline stomatitis is a painful inflammation of the gums, cheeks, and tongue that leads to ulcers and sores in the mouth. While Persians and Himalayans are more prone, any cat can develop this condition.

Cats with stomatitis often lose their appetite because eating is painful, and some may become malnourished. Mild cases may respond to at-home care, but severe cases usually require surgical treatment.

Tooth Resorption

Tooth resorption is the gradual breakdown of a cat’s teeth, affecting up to three-quarters of middle-aged and older cats. The body essentially destroys the hard outer structure of the tooth, which loosens and causes pain.

Because much of this damage happens below the gum line, it’s often only detectable with dental X-rays. Cats with tooth resorption may suddenly prefer soft food or swallow without chewing.

Preventing Dental Issues in Cats

The best way to protect your cat’s teeth is through routine brushing and professional dental care. Brushing your cat’s teeth helps remove plaque before it hardens, keeping gums and teeth healthier. Starting when your cat is a kitten can make the process easier over time.

Along with at-home care, schedule an annual professional dental exam and cleaning at Good Mojo Pet Care in River Hills. If brushing isn’t possible, dental treats and special diets can also help reduce plaque and support better oral health.