Eating, hunting, biting toys, and grooming are just a few things cats do with their mouths. Their active teeth come into contact with various items and can acquire a variety of dental diseases over time.
Dental issues and infections are prevalent in cats, especially as they age, and knowing how toothache feels, we may assume it’s uncomfortable for our feline companions. You might be astonished at how happy your cat appears once any issues with his mouth have been remedied. Because prevention is always preferable to treatment, establishing a regular dental routine for your cat is crucial.
Feline Dental Problems
Regular dental cleanings and checkups for your cat will help you avoid these problems. The most prevalent dental disorders in cats are listed here.
Bad Breath
In veterinary medicine, stinky cat breath is a relatively prevalent problem. Lousy breath, often known as halitosis, can be caused by various oral health issues, ranging from primary periodontal disease to an infected tumor. A systemic ailment such as diabetes or renal disease can also cause halitosis.
Bad breath should always be brought up with your veterinarian, and you should be on the lookout for other indicators of illness. If your cat is also experiencing changes in appetite, trouble swallowing, vomiting, or diarrhea, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. These symptoms might indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires immediate attention. Look up “Vets in Middlesex” for the best results.
Periodontal Disease
More than weight problems, renal illness, or any other diseases we generally associate with cats, periodontal disease is the most common medical condition discovered in cats. Most cats have periodontal disease by the age of three, yet we often overlook the minor indicators early on when it’s still curable.
Plaque and tartar accumulation on the tooth is the first sign of periodontal disease. Plaque spreads beyond the gum line over time, causing irritation, infection, and finally, tooth loss. Starting an at-home dental care regimen early in your cat’s life can make a big difference later in life by reducing plaque and tartar levels.
Stomatitis
Feline stomatitis is a painful illness characterized by severe inflammation or ulceration of the oral cavity’s tissues. Stomatitis causes cats’ jaws to become highly reddish and irritated, and they fight to have their teeth inspected. They typically have decreased appetites due to the discomfort produced by eating, and in severe cases, they may become malnourished as a result of the suffering. Consult your vet to know more about cat spay & neuter hospitals.
Tooth Resorption
Feline tooth resorption affects up to three-quarters of cats over five and is often misdiagnosed. The body begins to break down the dentin for reasons that are still unknown, loosening the tooth and painfully exposing the core.
Resorption of teeth can affect a single tooth or a group of teeth. The damaged tooth must be pulled after it has been diagnosed. This is a severe condition.
Cancer
Oral cavity carcinoma is the fourth most frequent malignancy found in cats. Cancers of the gums, lips, tongue, jawbone, and palate are all possible. Masses in the mouth, a bloated face, drooling, weight loss, unexpected tooth loss, or foul breath are all signs of oral cancer. While cats can have a variety of cancers, the majority of these tumors are squamous cell carcinomas.
Early detection is critical for the successful treatment of oral cancer, which can be challenging to control if more extensive tumors infiltrate the bone. One of the many reasons regular preventative care is so critical is that many masses are discovered during periodic cleanings and oral examinations when they are tiny and easier to control. Visit a veterinary dental specialist for more details.
