Cat Dental Care
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Keeping cat teeth healthy at home. Toothbrushing for cats, dental treats, and recognizing signs of periodontal disease.
Key Information
What You Need to Know
Practical Recommendations
Expert Tips
Understanding the Research
Budgeting for Pet Care
Related Guides
Explore more of our comprehensive pet care resources.
- All Pet Care Guides
- Dog Health Resources
- Cat Health Resources
- Pet Care Tools & Calculators
- Find Local Vets & Pet Services
Key Questions
Where can I learn more?
Tooth resorption in cats is a radiographic diagnosis under anesthesia. The AAHA Dental Care Guidelines and the American Veterinary Dental College client material on resorption are the readings. Brushing at home is the care between those radiographs. A red gum line on an awake cat is only the reason to book them.
How often should I take my pet to the vet?
Brushing at home sits between visits. The awake mouth check is part of the yearly exam adult cats get, and tooth resorption is diagnosed with dental radiographs under anesthesia after that exam shows a reason. Cats from about 10 years old are often seen every six months, and the mouth is part of that visit too. Kittens are examined every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks, which is when a retained tooth or a bad bite is noticed. Drooling or refusing hard food should move the appointment up.
How can I save money on pet care?
Brushing with a pet toothpaste, if the cat will allow it, stretches the time between anesthetized cleanings. The costly path is waiting until the cat stops eating and the mouth needs extractions. Ask for a written dental estimate that separates the cleaning from the extractions, which are often found after the cat is asleep.