With nearly 85% of cats over the age of three suffering from some form of dental disease, it is considered one of the most common health issues cats face. Even with these high statistics, dental disease in cats often goes unnoticed until serious issues are present. From gingivitis to gum disease and tooth resorption, knowing the signs of dental disease in your cat, your treatment options, and prevention tips are crucial in keeping your cat healthy for many years to come.
At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we understand that your pet’s health goes beyond routine check-ups. As an AAHA-accredited facility, we uphold the highest standards in veterinary care, using advanced diagnostics and treatment techniques to address dental issues effectively and compassionately. With our integrative approach, we are here to ensure your cat’s dental health is supported every step of the way.
What Are the Common Signs of Dental Disease in Cats?
While many cats do not show outward signs of dental disease, there are a few common symptoms you can look for to determine if your cat is in discomfort because of a dental issue. Some of these signs might include:
- Bad breath
- Excessive drooling
- Bloody saliva
- Plaque and tartar buildup
- Stained teeth
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Difficulty eating or lack of appetite
- Preferring wet food over dry food
- Weight loss
- Loose or missing teeth
Taking your cat for routine dental cleanings and wellness visits is critical for the early detection of dental disease before it becomes a serious issue. If your cat is showing any of these signs or there is a change in their behavior, you should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible to get your cat the treatment it needs to get back to feeling healthy and happy.
Types of Dental Disease in Cats
While it is essential to recognize the general signs of dental disease, it is also important to understand the main forms of dental disease. These include:
Gingivitis
As plaque and tartar build on the teeth because of poor dental care, the bacteria found in plaque can begin to form at the gumline, leading to inflammation and redness in the gums. This is known as gingivitis. Mild gingivitis does not affect the root of the tooth and is very common in cats of all ages. Thankfully, most gingivitis is reversible and can be treated through routine dental cleanings, oral antibiotics, and a quality dental hygiene routine.
Gum Disease
When gingivitis is left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis or gum disease. The gums of the teeth become severely inflamed and can begin to recede. This can cause tooth decay and result in the loss of the tooth. Gum disease can also lead to other serious health issues that affect the heart, liver, and kidneys.
While regular teeth cleanings by your veterinarian can help prevent gingivitis and, subsequently, gum disease, other treatment options may include oral antibiotics to kill the bacterial infection, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and the removal of the diseased tooth.
Tooth Resorption
While the cause of tooth resorption is unknown, poor oral health has been linked to its progression. The tooth slowly begins to erode around the gumline, resulting in holes in the tooth. This can become very painful for your cat as the sensitive insides of the tooth are exposed. In most cases, the tooth is extracted surgically by your veterinarian.
If you have any questions about the treatment options available to you, a knowledgeable veterinarian can examine your cat to better understand their dental health and design a plan tailored to their needs, getting your cat back to optimal comfort and health.
How Can You Prevent Your Cat From Getting Dental Disease?
Early detection and prevention are essential in protecting your cat from developing dental disease. Some prevention tips include the following:
- Brush your cat’s teeth regularly with a pet-safe toothpaste
- Take your cat to the veterinarian for routine teeth cleanings and examinations
- Give your cat dental treats and toys designed to remove plaque buildup
- Feed your cat quality food to keep their overall health optimal
At Mountain View Animal Hospital and Holistic Care, we are proud to offer preventative non-anesthesized dental cleanings through our partnership with Animal Dental Care. During these cleanings, your veterinary dentist will perform an oral examination on your cat followed by the removal of any visible plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth. This is a valuable component of your cat’s dental care plan as it can be used to help maintain their dental health between regular comprehensive dental cleanings without putting them under anesthesia.
Preventing dental disease before it happens will not only keep your cat’s mouth pain-free and comfortable, but it can also stop other major health issues from forming. Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care can help provide guidance and preventative dental care for your cat to keep it healthy throughout its lifetime.
Why Choose Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care for Expert Dental Care for Your Cat?
At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we combine advanced dental treatments with a compassionate, holistic approach to ensure that your cat receives comprehensive, high-quality care.
We understand that dental health is crucial to your cat’s overall well-being. Whether it’s routine cleanings, specialized treatments like tooth extractions, or tailored preventive guidance, our team is dedicated to enhancing your cat’s comfort and longevity. Contact us today at (775) 853-6900 or through our contact form to schedule an appointment and start prioritizing your cat’s dental health.
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