Cats are masters at hiding pain, and nowhere is that more true than in their mouths. A cat with a painful tooth will often keep eating, keep purring, and keep acting mostly normal. That is why dental disease in cats frequently goes unnoticed until it is quite advanced.
Cats also develop some dental conditions that are rare in dogs. At Arlington Animal Clinic, we regularly diagnose these problems in cats from Arlington, Cambridge, Somerville, Belmont, and Lexington during routine exams, often before their owners suspected anything was wrong.
Why Cat Dental Disease Is So Easy to Miss
- Cats instinctively hide pain and weakness
- Most cats swallow kibble whole, so they can keep eating even with sore teeth
- Cats rarely let owners look closely inside their mouths
- Many problems occur below the gumline, where they cannot be seen without X-rays
Tooth Resorption
Tooth resorption is one of the most common dental problems in cats, and studies suggest it affects a large share of adult cats. In this condition, the body gradually breaks down the structure of a tooth, often starting at or below the gumline.
From the outside, you may see a small pink spot on a tooth, or gum tissue that seems to be growing over part of the tooth. Once the sensitive inner layers are exposed, these lesions can be very painful. The cause is not fully understood, and the condition cannot currently be prevented.
Signs of tooth resorption may include:
- Jaw chattering when eating or when a tooth is touched
- Dropping food or chewing on one side
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Preferring wet food over dry
Dental X-rays are essential to diagnose resorption, because much of the damage happens beneath the gumline. Affected teeth are usually removed to relieve pain.
Feline Stomatitis
Stomatitis is a severe inflammation of the gums and the tissues at the back of the mouth. It is thought to be an overreaction of the cat’s immune system to plaque and bacteria on the teeth. Cats with stomatitis have bright red, inflamed tissue that bleeds easily and is extremely painful.
Cats with stomatitis may:
- Stop eating or approach the food bowl and then walk away
- Drool, sometimes with blood
- Stop grooming, leading to an unkempt coat
- Have very bad breath
- Lose weight
Treatment often involves extracting many or all of the teeth to remove the source of inflammation. While that may sound drastic, most cats do remarkably well afterward and many become more comfortable than they have been in years. Medications help manage pain and inflammation along the way.
Periodontal Disease in Cats
Like dogs, cats also develop plaque, tartar, and gum disease. Over time, periodontal disease destroys the tissues that hold teeth in place, leading to loose teeth, infection, and pain. Learn more about dental disease in pets.
How to Check Your Cat’s Mouth at Home
When your cat is relaxed, gently lift their lip at the side of the mouth and look for:
- A thin red line along the gums
- Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
- Pink spots or gum tissue covering part of a tooth
- Missing or broken teeth
- Swelling or bleeding
Keep sessions short and reward your cat with a treat. If your cat reacts strongly or seems painful, stop and call us.
Caring for Your Cat’s Teeth
- Schedule a dental check at every yearly wellness exam
- Try brushing with a cat-safe toothpaste, starting slowly
- Ask about dental diets and treats with the VOHC seal
- Follow through on recommended professional dental cleanings with X-rays
Common Questions About Cat Dental Disease
Can cats live without teeth?
Yes. Cats adapt very well after extractions and can eat both wet and, often, dry food comfortably.
Is tooth resorption caused by poor care?
No. Tooth resorption occurs even in well-cared-for cats, and its exact cause is still unknown.
My cat is still eating. Could they really have dental pain?
Absolutely. Most cats with dental pain continue to eat because hunger outweighs discomfort.
How often should my cat’s teeth be checked?
At least once a year, and more often if your cat has a history of resorption or gum disease.
When to Schedule a Visit with a Veterinarian
If your cat has bad breath, drools, chatters their jaw, or has changed how they eat, a dental exam is the next step. Arlington Animal Clinic, at 191 Broadway in Arlington, MA, provides complete feline dental care, including X-rays and extractions when needed. Call 781-646-0758 to schedule your cat’s visit.
