Dental Disease in Cats
Dental disease in cats is a common condition affecting the teeth and gums, ranging from mild tartar buildup to severe periodontal disease.
What Is Dental Disease in Cats?
Dental disease in cats is a common condition affecting the teeth and gums, ranging from mild tartar buildup to severe periodontal disease. It includes gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth resorption, and infections, which can cause pain, difficulty eating, and even systemic health issues if left untreated.
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we offer expert care to diagnose and treat dental disease, ensuring your cats comfort and health.
Signs Your Cat May Have Dental Disease
Cats are skilled at hiding discomfort, but signs of dental disease may include:
🐾 Bad breath (halitosis)
🐾 Drooling, sometimes with blood
🐾 Difficulty eating or dropping food
🐾 Pawing at the mouth or face
🐾 Weight loss due to decreased appetite
🐾 Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth
🐾 Swollen or bleeding gums
🐾 Red inflamed gums (gingivitis)
🐾 Loose or missing teeth
If your cat shows any of these signs, a vet check-up is recommended to allow for treatment and prevent further complications.
What Causes Dental Disease in Cats?
Several factors contribute to dental disease, including:
🐾 Plaque & calculus Buildup – Bacteria accumulate on the teeth, leading to inflammation and gum disease.
🐾 Gingivitis & Periodontitis – Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, causing tooth loss.
🐾 Tooth Resorption – A painful condition where the tooth structure breaks down, common in cats.
🐾 Diet – Soft food diets contribute to plaque buildup.
🐾 Genetics – Some cats, like Siamese and Persian breeds, are predisposed to dental issues.
🐾 Lack of Dental Care – Without regular cleanings, dental disease can develop quickly.
When to See a Vet
You should seek veterinary care if your cat:
🐾 Shows signs of pain while eating
🐾 Has bad breath that doesn’t improve
🐾 Has red, swollen, or bleeding gums
🐾 Has difficulty chewing or avoids food
🐾 Develops facial swelling (which may indicate an abscess)
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we offer gentle, professional treatment to relieve discomfort and prevent dental complications.
Professional Dental Disease Treatment at My Corner Vet
Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and may include:
Professional Dental Cleaning
Under general anesthesia, plaque and calculus are removed, and the teeth are polished.
Antibiotics & Pain Relief
Used for infections or after extractions.
Dental Xrays
while some teeth may look normal on the surface, underlying issues beneath the gum line can go undetected. X-rays allow your veterinarian to assess the health of the roots and identify any teeth that may require extraction.
Tooth Extractions
Severely affected or resorptive teeth may need to be removed to relieve pain.
At-Home Dental Care Guidance
Advice on maintaining oral health between vet visits.
How to Prevent Dental Disease in Cats
🐾 Regular Brushing – Using cat-friendly toothpaste can help reduce plaque buildup.
🐾 Dental Diets & Treats – Some prescription diets and dental chews help maintain oral health.
🐾 Routine Vet Checkups – Regular dental exams help catch issues early.
While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce the risk by:
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most cats benefit from professional dental cleanings every 6-12 months, depending on their oral health.
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No, human toothpaste contains ingredients that are toxic to cats. Always use pet-safe toothpaste.
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Dental treats can help, but they should be used in combination with other preventive measures like brushing.
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Untreated dental disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, infections, and even systemic illnesses affecting the heart and kidneys.
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If brushing isn’t an option, try dental diets, greenies or vet-recommended products to help maintain dental health.
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📍 Clinic Location: 134 Broadway, Nedlands, WA
📞 Call Us: (08) 6285 8535
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Schedule a check-up today for expert dental treatment and cleaning. 🐶✨
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