What causes dental disease in cats?
There are many causes of dental disease in cats, but these are some of the most common ones your veterinarian may check for when examining your cat's mouth:
- Plaque: Plaque is a soft, sticky layer that forms on teeth and is made up of bacteria and other substances that cling together. If it isn’t removed, plaque can harden into tartar over time and may cause painful gum infections.
- Tooth resorption: A dental condition where the tooth breaks down over time, creating holes that expose the nerves and can cause a lot of pain. If left untreated, it can even weaken or break the teeth.
- Feline stomatitis: A condition where the soft tissues in the throat, gums, tongue, or roof of the mouth become inflamed and painful. It may be linked to your cat’s body reacting to bacteria on their teeth. Feline stomatitis can also be linked to infections like feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
- Broken or damaged teeth: Teeth can crack or break due to chewing, accidents, or other trauma and may expose the inside of the tooth. If this happens, the tooth may need to be removed to help prevent infection and pain.
- Other dental conditions: Less common causes of dental disease include mouth tumors and bite problems (malocclusion).
How can I tell if my cat has dental disease?
Cats have a very strong survival instinct, which means they’re very good at hiding signs of illness or pain. Even with advanced dental disease, your cat may continue to eat and appear to behave normally. Symptoms aren’t always obvious, so it’s important to watch for changes in your cat.
Behavior changes you may notice:
- Eating less or refusing food
- Pawing at their mouth or face
- Decreased or lack of normal grooming
- Dropping food while chewing
Visible changes you can see (or smell):
- Yellow or brown tartar buildup on your cat’s teeth, especially near their cheeks
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Drooling or blood in the saliva
- Loose teeth or missing teeth
- Facial swelling from an infected tooth
- Weight loss
- Bad breath
Remember: some cats may show very few signs until their dental disease gets very bad. Because of this, it’s always best to contact your vet if you notice any concerning changes in your cat’s mouth, appetite, or behavior. Together, you can decide what to do next.
How do veterinarians diagnose dental disease in cats?
To determine whether a cat has dental disease, vets typically start with a physical exam and may recommend additional steps to get a clearer picture of what’s happening in your cat’s mouth.
That physical exam can happen during your cat’s routine wellness checkup, which should happen every 6 to 12 months. During the checkup, the vet will take a brief look inside your cat’s mouth to check their teeth and gums. That said, since many dental problems often hide below the gumline, this initial check may not tell the full story.
If your vet needs a better, longer look at your cat's teeth, they may recommend a dental exam using calming medicine or anesthesia. This makes the process less stressful and more comfortable for your cat. Your vet may also recommend doing bloodwork before anesthesia.
Anesthesia also makes it possible for your vet to get an in-depth look at your cat’s entire mouth and take X-rays. Dental X-rays can see disease below the gumline and will help your vet choose the best treatment for your cat.
How is dental disease treated in cats?
Treatment for dental disease usually begins after your vet’s completed a dental exam and taken any necessary X-rays. In most cases, this is followed by a professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. (As we mentioned earlier, many dental problems begin below the gumline, so this kind of cleaning is really important.)
Depending on your cat’s dental problem, treatment may also include:
- Tooth removal (also referred to as “extraction”) for broken or infected teeth
- Pain medications to keep your cat comfortable, especially after extractions
- Antibiotics to treat infected teeth or gums
- Other medications, like steroids for feline stomatitis
In less common cases, your vet may suggest additional treatments such as root canals, removal of mouth tumors, or laser treatment of red and tender tissue.
What can you do to help prevent dental disease in your cat?
Dental disease can sound overwhelming, but many dental issues in your cat are preventable with simple routines.
Helpful steps include:
- Veterinary dental checkups and cleanings (if recommended) every 6 to 12 months
- Brushing your cat’s teeth regularly to protect their teeth and gums
- Veterinary Oral Health Council–approved dental treats, foods, and water supplements if brushing isn’t possible
The key is finding a routine that works for both you and your cat, and sticking with it. Even small, consistent steps can make a meaningful difference in your cat’s dental health over time.
Wrapping up: Finding dental disease early is important
Your cat can’t tell you when something hurts, but small changes in their behavior or eating patterns can be important clues. Catching dental disease early can make it easier to manage, which is why paying attention to small changes really matters.
If you notice any concerning changes in your cat’s mouth, eating habits, or behavior, schedule a visit with your vet. Regular dental care and routine veterinary exams are some of the most effective ways to protect your cat’s mouth and catch problems early. Your veterinary team can help you make the best treatment and prevention plan to help your cat stay healthy, comfortable, and happy for years to come.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about this topic
You should brush your cat’s teeth once a day. That said, that’s easier said than done—and for many cat owners, it just isn’t possible. If you fall in that camp, focus on picking a schedule that works for both you and your cat. For example, try brushing 2 times per week—and stick to it. Regularity is more important than perfection.
Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia are necessary because dental disease in cats occurs both above and below the gumline. This isn’t easily seen when your cat is awake. Anesthesia makes it possible for your vet to do a thorough exam and provide the proper treatment for your cat’s particular situation. Anesthesia also reduces your cat’s anxiety and improves their comfort during dental procedures.
The sooner you can introduce your cat to a home dental care routine, the better—ideally, when they’re a kitten.
If you have an older cat, you may still be able to brush their teeth with some training. If brushing isn’t an option, there are many helpful at-home dental care options that you can talk through with your vet.
No, bad breath in cats isn’t healthy. It can happen if they eat something stinky, which is not cause for concern, but bad breath is usually caused by bacteria in the plaque and tartar on your cat’s teeth. Other medical conditions—like liver disease and diabetes—can cause bad breath too. If your cat’s breath smells off, contact your vet right away to get it checked out.
