Dental Care for Cats

Feline dental care is perhaps the most overlooked and under-treated area in small animal medicine. Cats, while affected by many of the same dental problems as small dogs, are also affected by species-specific syndromes such as tooth resorption and gingivostamatitis.

Tooth Resorption

Tooth Resorption (TR), also known as cavities, neck lesions, external or internal root resorptions, or cervical line erosions, affects over 50% of cats three years old or older. This most commonly happens where the gum meets the tooth surface. Molars are most commonly affected; however, tooth resorptions can be found on any tooth. The reason for the resorption is unknown, but theories supporting an autoimmune response have been proposed. Cats affected with tooth resorption may show

  • excessive salivation,
  • bleeding in the mouth,
  • or may have difficulty eating.

Tooth resorptions can be quite painful. The majority of affected cats do not show obvious clinical signs. Most times it is up to the clinician to diagnose the lesions upon oral examination. Diagnostic aids include a probe or cotton tipped applicator applied to the suspected resorption; when the probe touches the lesion, it causes pain and jaw spasms. Radiographs are helpful in making definitive diagnosis and treatment planning.

Gingivostmatitis

Cats can also be affected by an inflammatory disease called Gingivostomatitis. The cause of this disease has not been determined but an immune-related cause is suspected. Signs in an affected cat include:

  • difficulty swallowing,
  • weight loss, and
  • excessive saliva.

An oral examination can show many abnormalities. Radiographs often reveal moderate to severe periodontal disease with bone loss. Managing a case of gingivostomatitis can be challenging. Often, attempts at conservative therapy are ineffective. Extracting the cheek teeth usually resolves the syndrome in sixty percent of the cases. Other treatment options are available on a case by case situation.

Cancer

Cats are also affected by cancer in their mouths. But not all feline oral swellings are malignant. Cats can frequently be affected by reactions to foreign bodies, problems from dental disease, infections and other benign lumps. Biopsies are essential for diagnosis.