Dental Disease in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in cats, affecting over 70% of cats over the age of three. If left untreated, dental problems can lead to pain, tooth loss, infection, and even systemic health issues affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Understanding the causes, recognising symptoms early, and implementing proper dental care can help keep your cat’s teeth and gums healthy throughout their life.

What is dental disease in cats?

Dental disease, also known as feline periodontal disease, refers to a range of conditions affecting a cat’s teeth, gums, and oral structures. It develops when plaque and tartar build up, leading to inflammation, infection, and damage to the teeth and surrounding tissues.

Cats are particularly prone to dental problems because they do not naturally chew their food thoroughly, and many owners do not provide regular dental care.

Causes of dental disease in cats

Several factors contribute to dental disease in cats, including:

Plaque and tartar buildup

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that forms on the teeth. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), which irritates the gums and leads to gum disease.

Gingivitis

Inflammation of the gums caused by plaque and tartar buildup. This is the early stage of periodontal disease. If untreated, it can progress to painful infections and tooth loss.

Periodontal disease

This occurs when gingivitis progresses, causing destruction of the tooth-supporting structures, including gums, ligaments, and bone. It can lead to tooth loss, abscesses, and chronic pain. Bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream, affecting major organs.

Tooth resorption (feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions)

A common condition where the tooth structure breaks down, exposing the pulp. It is extremely painful and often requires tooth extraction. The cause is not fully understood but may be linked to genetics and diet.

Stomatitis

A severe, painful inflammatory condition affecting the entire mouth. It is likely caused by an overactive immune response to plaque. In many cases, full-mouth tooth extractions are the only effective treatment.

Broken or fractured teeth

Teeth can break from chewing on hard objects like bones, toys, or furniture. Exposed tooth pulp leads to pain, infection, and abscesses.

Poor diet

Cats on soft food-only diets are at higher risk because they lack the natural chewing action that helps clean teeth. High-carbohydrate diets also promote plaque formation.

Symptoms of dental disease in cats

Cats instinctively hide pain, so dental disease often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. Watch for the following signs:

Mild to moderate symptoms

• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Drooling (sometimes with blood)
• Red or swollen gums
• Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth
• Decreased appetite or preference for soft food
• Pawing at the mouth or excessive face rubbing

Severe symptoms requiring immediate veterinary attention

• Difficulty eating or dropping food while eating
• Bleeding from the mouth
• Swollen jaw or facial swelling due to abscesses
• Loose or missing teeth
• Chronic sneezing or nasal discharge, indicating infection spread

Diagnosing dental disease in cats

A veterinarian will diagnose dental disease through:

• Oral examination to check for tartar, gum inflammation, and loose teeth
• Dental X-rays to assess hidden tooth and bone damage
• Blood tests to check for infection and organ health, especially before dental surgery

Treatment for dental disease in cats

Treatment depends on the severity of the dental disease.

Professional dental cleaning

This is performed under general anaesthesia to allow a thorough cleaning. The procedure includes ultrasonic scaling to remove tartar and plaque, polishing to smooth tooth surfaces, and dental X-rays to identify underlying problems.

Tooth extractions

Severely damaged, fractured, or resorbed teeth must be removed. Full-mouth extractions are sometimes needed for severe stomatitis. Cats adapt well to tooth loss and can still eat normally.

Antibiotics and pain relief

These are prescribed for infections, abscesses, or severe inflammation. Pain medication, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or opioids, is given after tooth extractions.

Treatment for stomatitis

This condition requires aggressive treatment. Full-mouth extractions often provide the best relief. Immunosuppressive drugs such as corticosteroids may be used if surgery is not an option.

Preventing dental disease in cats

Brushing your cat’s teeth

Brushing is the best method for preventing plaque and tartar buildup. Use cat-specific toothpaste, as human toothpaste contains fluoride, which is toxic to cats. Introduce brushing gradually using finger brushes or soft cat toothbrushes. Daily brushing is ideal, but even two to three times a week is beneficial.

Dental diets and treats

Prescription dental diets can help to reduce plaque. Dental treats and chews designed to remove tartar can also be beneficial.

Water additives and oral gels

Vet-approved water additives can help reduce bacteria in the mouth. Oral gels and sprays containing enzymes also help break down plaque.

Regular vet check-ups

Annual or bi-annual dental check-ups can catch problems early. Routine dental cleanings under anaesthesia help prevent severe disease.

Avoid hard objects

Do not allow your cat to chew on hard toys, bones, or dried treats that can fracture teeth.

Can dental disease in cats affect overall health?

Yes, untreated dental disease can lead to serious systemic health issues. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver. Chronic pain from dental disease can lead to weight loss, depression, and behavioural changes. Sinus infections can also develop if oral infections spread.

Do indoor cats still need dental care?

Yes. Even if your cat does not hunt or chew hard food, plaque still forms on their teeth, leading to dental disease. Indoor cats are just as prone to gum disease and tooth resorption as outdoor cats.

Conclusion

Dental disease is one of the most overlooked health issues in cats, yet it can cause chronic pain, tooth loss, and systemic infections if untreated. Early intervention, regular dental check-ups, and home care are essential for maintaining your cat’s oral health.

By brushing your cat’s teeth, providing dental-friendly food and treats, and scheduling regular vet visits, you can prevent painful dental problems and help your cat live a long, healthy, and pain-free life.

If you notice bad breath, drooling, or difficulty eating, consult your vet as soon as possible. Early detection is key to preventing serious complications.