Oral health is essential to a cat’s overall health. Your cat’s mouth, teeth, and gums are necessary for eating and communicating, so when damaged or injured, they experience pain and cannot eat or speak normally. Infections and bacteria that cause oral health issues in cats will not remain in their mouths. Infections and germs in your cat’s mouth, if left untreated, can harm their kidneys, liver, and heart, impacting their general health and lifespan.
What are the most common dental issues for cats?
What are the most common dental conditions in cats? Keep reading.
Periodontal Gum Disease
By age 3, periodontal disease is the leading cause of serious oral health problems in cats, impacting approximately 70%. Without frequent cleaning, plaque collects and hardens into tartar above and below the gum line, resulting in swollen, bleeding, or irritated gums. If left untreated, the condition can cause poor breath, gum pus, fever, jaw bone deterioration, and tooth loss. The infection can also harm the body’s key organs. Maintaining periodic professional dental cleanings together with good wellness plans for your pet buddy is the most effective method for preventing gum disease.
Resorption of the Teeth
Tooth resorption is a painful condition produced by biological processes that erode the tooth’s structure from the outside enamel along the gum line into the pulp-containing interior. Occasionally, lesions on the teeth resemble dental caries, which are uncommon in cats. Eventually, the affected teeth will undoubtedly necessitate extraction.
Dental Fracturing
As cats age, their teeth become brittle and susceptible to fracture. Teeth that have fragmented through to the dentin or pulp tissues will likely need to be pulled due to intense pain and the risk of infection or tooth root abscess development.
Stomatitis
The immune system’s overreaction causes this painful and debilitating sickness to the germs that cause periodontal disease. It is marked by ulceration or inflammation of the mouth’s soft tissues. While some cats may respond to medical treatment and attentive oral hygiene, tooth extraction is often the most effective treatment for this problem.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer found in cats. It can develop in the tongue, lips, gums, and soft palate, among other parts of the oral cavity. Early detection and treatment of disease increase the likelihood of a full recovery. Call your vet or visit them today to get ahead of this issue and ensure the longevity of your feline friend.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Regularly brushing and cleaning your cat’s mouth is the most effective method for preventing dental problems. Plaque should be eliminated from your cat’s gums and teeth before it causes harm or infection. Bring your feline in for a professional dental examination and cleaning once a year to maintain the health of its teeth and if you still don’t have a vet dentist in your area, just look up “pet dentist near me”
Conclusion
It is recommended to begin cleaning your cat’s teeth and gums when they are still a kitten since they will be more accustomed to it. This will assist in preventing oral health problems from ever arising. If you cannot brush your cat’s teeth, dental treats and diets can be utilized to maintain their oral health.
