Common Oral Issues in Cats: Causes & Solutions

However, this doesn't mean that cats are immune to dental issues. If their teeth are not properly cared for, they can still suffer from problems like tartar, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Severe periodontitis can lead to receding gums, loose teeth, foul breath, and infections, which can be incredibly painful for our feline friends. In the worst cases, the only solution may be to extract all affected teeth to achieve a cure.

So, how do cats develop dental diseases? The answer lies in the bacteria, dead skin cells, and food particles that accumulate in a cat's mouth, forming plaque on the surface of their teeth. Plaque forms rapidly, often within minutes, and can thicken over a few hours. Once plaque is established, it becomes very stubborn and adheres tightly to the teeth.

Over time, this plaque can harden into visible tartar, which, if left unchecked, can lead to a host of oral problems, including swollen and bleeding gums, loose teeth, and receding gums. In mild cases, dental cleaning under anesthesia may be necessary, while severe cases could require the removal of all affected teeth. Imagine the difficulty a cat would face in eating without teeth!

Therefore, it's of the utmost importance to take care of a cat's dental health.