Cat Eating Painfully: Possible Causes Explained

Certainly! Here's a revised version of the text with enhanced clarity, precision, and a more engaging, humanized tone:

Common Oral Diseases in Cats

1. Plaque

Our feline friends' mouths are home to numerous bacteria that latch onto the teeth with the help of saliva. Over a period of about 2 to 3 days, these bacteria multiply and form a visible, yellowishwhite layer known as plaque.

This plaque can trigger an immune response in the gums, leading to redness (congestion) and swelling (edges becoming blunted), which is a mild form of gingivitis. Plaque and gingivitis are the initial steps in the development of periodontal disease.

2. Tartar

Mild gingivitis doesn't always lead to periodontal disease. Since plaque can be easily removed with brushing and the abrasion from eating, the gums can heal once the plaque is gone. However, if plaque is left untreated, the bacteria eventually die and their remains start to calcify, forming a greyishyellow tartar.

Tartar builds up over time, causing more severe gum inflammation and eventually leading to the infection of the tooth roots below the gum line. This is the beginning of mild periodontitis, where the connective tissue holding the teeth in place is damaged.

3. Gingival Recession

If gingivitis and tartar are left to persist, they can lead to periodontitis. This condition not only affects the gums and surrounding connective tissues but also causes the destruction of alveolar bone. Once this bone is damaged, the gums recede, exposing the unprotected tooth roots. The teeth may also start to wobble, leading to severe periodontitis.

Periodontitis doesn't just cause tooth loss; it can lead to inflammation, wounds, ulcers, and bacterial infections. The destruction of alveolar bone can make the jaw bones fragile. There may also be the formation of abscesses between the mouth and nose, affecting the nose and pressing on the eye sockets. Oral discomfort can lead to a decrease in appetite, among other issues.

4. Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an inflammation that occurs around the gums and the sockets of the teeth. The bacteria in the tartar are the primary cause of this disease, which results from a complex interaction between the bacterial infection of the periodontal tissues and the host's immune response.

In the early stages, it may cause gingivitis, with swollen gums and bleeding upon touching. However, if treated promptly, the condition can be cured. If ignored, the inflammation worsens, leading to the formation of periodontal pockets and eventually to the destruction of the alveolar bone.

Guidelines for Cat Oral Hygiene

It's important to start early in cultivating your cat's brushing habit and to help them gradually get used to the process. Suddenly introducing brushing can be challenging. Here are some brushing techniques to consider:

1. Gently hold the cat's snout (near the nose) and practice closing the mouth.

2. Slide your finger into the mouth at the corner, and touch the molars.

3. Wrap a piece of gauze around your finger and gently rub the teeth and gums.

4. Apply a dental cleaner to the gauze and continue the gentle rub.

5. Use a softbristled toothbrush with a dental cleaner and gently brush the teeth (upper canine and molar areas).

6. If the cat tolerates it, try brushing the cheek side (outer surface of the teeth) and then the incisors.

7. After the cheek side is done, continue with the tongue side (inner surface of the teeth).

8. If the cat resists, repeat steps 5 to 7.

This version aims to provide a more detailed and empathetic explanation of the oral health issues in cats and offers practical advice for maintaining their oral hygiene.