Cat Dental Disease. The Silent Epidemic

Dental disease is one of the most common, and overlooked health problems in cats.

Studies show that over 70% of cats develop dental or gum disease by the age of three. Because cats are experts at hiding pain, problems often go unnoticed until they are advanced.

With the right care and prevention, you can protect your cat’s teeth and overall health.

Cats can experience dental disease

What Is Feline Dental Disease?

Dental disease typically starts with plaque, a soft film of bacteria on the teeth. If not removed, plaque mineralizes into tartar, which irritates the gums and leads to gingivitis (gum inflammation). Left untreated, it progresses to periodontal disease, where the tissues supporting the teeth are destroyed.

Some cats also suffer from tooth resorption, a painful condition where the body begins to break down and absorb the tooth itself.

Signs of Dental Trouble in Cats

Cats rarely show obvious signs of mouth pain. Watch for:

• Bad breath (halitosis)

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

• Dropping food, chewing on one side, or reluctance to eat hard food

• Pawing at the mouth

• Reduced grooming, drooling, or a matted coat

• Behavioral changes (hiding, irritability, reduced play)

Even subtle shifts, like eating slower or leaving food behind, can be clues.

Checking their mouth daily can help identify dental issues early.

Preventing Dental Disease: Practical Steps for Cat Owners

1. Regular Veterinary Dental Care

• Schedule annual dental checks, more often for senior cats, or cats who have a known predisposition to poor dental health.

• Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia are sometimes necessary to remove tartar below the gumline.

2. At-Home Dental Hygiene

• Toothbrushing: The gold standard. Use a cat-sized toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste). Start slowly, building up trust over time.

• Dental wipes: An alternative if your cat won’t tolerate brushing. Less effective but still helpful.

3. Dental-Friendly Diet & Chews

• A natural raw diet is going to help support dental health. Bones and larger pieces of meat can help to scrape plaque off the teeth and gums.

• Cat-safe dental chews and toys encourage chewing, which helps reduce buildup.

• Improving water intake to help moisten the mouth and flush away bacteria.

4. Daily Observation

• Check your cat’s mouth weekly for red gums, excess tartar, or missing teeth.

• Pay attention to changes in appetite, grooming, or social behavior, These often precede obvious symptoms.

  
  

Why Oral Health Matters for Whole-Body Wellness

Dental disease doesn’t just cause mouth pain, it can impact the entire body. Bacteria from infected gums may enter the bloodstream, contributing to problems with the heart, kidneys, and liver. Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most effective ways to support your cat’s long-term wellbeing.

Dental disease is common, but it doesn’t have to be inevitable. By combining regular vet check-ups with simple at-home routines, you can keep your cat’s mouth clean, their body healthier, and their life more comfortable.

Want More Easy, Natural Dental Tips?

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy mouth, and with a few simple habits you can make a huge difference in your cat’s comfort and wellbeing. If you’d like practical, stress-free ideas you can start using right away, grab my free guide:

7 Easy Ways to Keep your Cats Breath Fresh

Discover simple, effective tips to keep your cat’s teeth clean, gums healthy, and breath fresh, without harsh chemicals.

Give your cat a pat from me

Kerrie Hyland