Is your cat acting strangely when eating? Is there bad breath making their morning visits to you unpleasant? Are they slobbering over you… and not in a cute way?
As a cat owner, you might be wondering if these signs warrant a trip to the veterinary dentist, or if they’re mild enough that you can treat them yourself at home.
It’s important to consider the context and situation when deciding whether your feline friend needs professional dental care. In this guide, we’ll explore ten key indicators that it’s time to seek cat dentistry services.
The Importance of Feline Dental Health
Cats, like humans, can suffer from various dental issues that impact their overall health and quality of life.
A cat’s mouth contains 30 permanent teeth, each playing a crucial role in their daily activities. However, studies show that up to 90% of cats over the age of four experience some form of dental disease. Regular dental care is essential for preventing and addressing these issues.
10 Signs Your Cat May Need Dental Care
Just like with humans, one of the best ways to get dental care is through dentistry services. In addition to regular check-ups, though, how can you know when to take your cat to see their dentist?
We’re outlining 10 common signs, as well as the procedure that can help alleviate any discomfort.
1. Bad Breath
Scenario: You lean in to give your cat a loving nuzzle, only to recoil from an overwhelming, fishy odor… and you haven’t fed them tuna in a week!
Bad breath in cats is often a sign of underlying dental problems. While a slight odor is normal, persistent bad breath can indicate issues like gum disease or tooth decay.
Recommended Procedures:
- Dental Examination: To identify the source of the odor
- Dental Cleaning: To remove plaque and tartar buildup
2. Visible Tartar
Scenario: While playing with your cat, you notice yellowish-brown buildup on their teeth.
Tartar accumulation can lead to gum inflammation and more serious dental issues if left untreated.
Recommended Procedures:
- Dental Examination: To assess the extent of tartar buildup
- Dental Cleaning: To remove tartar and prevent further accumulation
3. Red or Bleeding Gums
Scenario: You spot small specks of blood in your cat’s water bowl or on their toys.
Red or bleeding gums often indicate gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease, which can be painful for your cat.
Recommended Procedures:
- Dental Examination: To diagnose the underlying cause
- Dental Cleaning: To remove irritants and promote gum health
- Antibiotics or Pain Medication: To address any infection or discomfort
4. Drooling
Scenario: You notice your cat leaving small puddles of saliva around the house, which is unusual for them.
Excessive drooling can be a sign of dental pain or mouth injuries.
Recommended Procedures:
- Dental Examination: To identify the cause of drooling
- Dental X-rays: To check for hidden dental issues
- Dental Cleaning: To address any contributing factors
5. Difficulty Eating
Scenario: Your normally food-motivated cat starts leaving kibble in their bowl or cries when trying to eat.
Dental pain can make eating uncomfortable, leading to changes in eating habits or weight loss.
Recommended Procedures:
- Dental Examination: To identify painful areas
- Dental X-rays: To check for hidden issues like root problems
- Tooth Extraction: If severely damaged teeth are causing pain
6. Pawing at the Mouth
Scenario: You notice your cat frequently rubbing their face against furniture or pawing at their mouth.
This behavior often indicates discomfort in the mouth area, possibly due to dental issues.
Recommended Procedures:
- Dental Examination: To locate the source of discomfort
- Dental X-rays: To identify any hidden dental problems
- Dental Cleaning: To address potential irritants
7. Swelling
Scenario: You notice a puffy area on your cat’s face or around their jaw.
Swelling can indicate abscesses, tumors, or other serious dental conditions requiring immediate attention.
Recommended Procedures:
- Dental Examination: To diagnose the cause of swelling
- Dental X-rays: To determine the extent of the problem
- Antibiotics or Pain Medication: To address infection and discomfort
8. Loose or Missing Teeth
Scenario: While brushing your cat’s teeth, you notice a tooth is wiggly or seems to have fallen out.
Adult cats should not lose teeth. Loose or missing teeth can indicate advanced dental disease.
Recommended Procedures:
- Dental Examination: To assess overall dental health
- Dental X-rays: To check for root issues or bone loss
- Tooth Extraction: For severely loose or damaged teeth
9. Weight Loss
Scenario: Despite no changes in diet, you notice your cat losing weight or becoming less interested in food.
Dental pain can make eating difficult, leading to unintended weight loss.
Recommended Procedures:
- Dental Examination: To identify any painful areas in the mouth
- Dental X-rays: To check for hidden dental issues
- Tooth Extraction: If dental pain is causing eating issues
10. Behavioral Changes
Scenario: Your usually social cat becomes withdrawn, hiding more often or reacting aggressively when touched near the face.
Dental pain can cause significant behavior changes in cats as they try to cope with discomfort.
Recommended Procedures:
- Dental Examination: To identify sources of pain or discomfort
- Dental X-rays: To check for hidden dental problems
- Dental Cleaning: To address potential irritants causing behavioral changes
Let Catonsville Cat Clinic Help Get Your Feline Friend Smiling Again
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can prevent many of these issues from developing or worsening. By staying vigilant and seeking professional cat dentistry services when needed, you can ensure your feline friend maintains optimal oral health and overall well-being.
Need help understanding just what your cat is going through? Schedule an appointment with Catonsville Cat Clinic today. Our team of feline dental experts is ready to provide complete and compassionate care for your furry family member.