Dental & Periodontal Disease
Also called: Periodontal disease, gingivitis, tooth resorption, gingivostomatitis
- Cats
- Dental & mouth
- Adult / Senior
Dental disease is among the most common health problems in cats. The main forms are gingivitis (inflamed gums from plaque), periodontitis (irreversible damage to the structures anchoring teeth), and tooth resorption (the tooth structure erodes). Gingivostomatitis is a less common but severe, very painful widespread inflammation of the mouth. All can cause significant pain and stop a cat from eating.
Signs to look for
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Drooling
- Reluctance to eat, dropping food, or chewing on one side
- Pawing at the mouth
- Weight loss
How a vet diagnoses it
Oral examination, usually under general anaesthesia, with full-mouth dental X-rays — essential to detect tooth resorption and bone loss below the gumline. Gingivostomatitis may also involve biopsy.
Treatment
Professional scaling and polishing under anaesthesia; extraction of affected or resorbing teeth (often the only effective remedy for advanced disease). Gingivostomatitis is often treated with full or near-full-mouth extractions when conservative measures fail. Home tooth-brushing helps prevent recurrence.
Monitoring at home
Ongoing oral comfort and eating, plaque control, and regular (at least annual) dental checks.
Who tends to get it
Risk increases with age. Cornell notes tooth resorption affects an estimated 20–60% of all cats, and close to three-quarters of those five and older. Gingivostomatitis is associated with viral infections (FIV, FeLV, calicivirus).
This library is educational reference only. It is designed to help you learn about health conditions your pet may have been diagnosed with — it does not interpret your pet's symptoms, cannot diagnose, and is not a substitute for veterinary care. Cats and dogs often hide illness well, so signs can be subtle. Any new, persistent, or worsening sign warrants a vet visit.