by Marie Kay

Created on: February 08, 2009   Last Updated: February 16, 2009

Proper dental care is an important factor in your cat's overall well-being, although it's often overlooked. Poor dental health has been linked to weight loss, kidney problems, and heart disease. If you are a cat owner, it's important to familiarize yourself with some common conditions that can occur if your pet's oral hygiene is neglected.

-Common cat dental conditions:

1) Periodontal disease - Caused by build-up of plaque and tarter, periodontal disease is the most common dental problem in cats. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to other, more serious, dental conditions.

2) Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions (FORL) - This condition is comparable to a cavity, and occurs when lesions form in the enamel of a tooth. FORL can cause severe pain and tooth loss.

3) Feline stomatitis - This autoimmune disease occurs when the body rejects and becomes allergic to the plaque that is present on the teeth. It usually occurs in cats that have underlying health problems. Left untreated, feline stomatitis can spread to the throat and cause painful lesions.

-Risk factors for feline dental diseases:

1) Insufficient dental care

2) Poor overall health

3) Genetic disposition

-Signs and symptoms:

1) Bleeding or inflamed gums

2) Bad breath

3) Tarter build-up on teeth

4) Excessive drooling

5) Mouth pain or discomfort

6) Changes in eating habits

-Diagnosis and treatment:

1) Physical examination/blood tests

2) Extraction of loose or damaged teeth

3) Dental hygiene procedures such as cleaning and polishing

4) Antibiotics

-Preventative care:

1) Veterinary exams - Schedule regular check-ups for your cat so the condition of his teeth can be monitored.

2) Diet - Your veterinarian may suggest a specially formulated prescription diet to improve your cat's oral health.

3) Brushing - Toothbrushes and toothpastes designed specifically for cats are a handy way to keep your pet's teeth healthy.

4)Cat dental treats - Found at most pet stores, these morsels feature an abrasive texture that loosens tarter.

5) Cat dental rinses - Available in a squirt bottle, these products are designed to fight plaque and clean the teeth.

Taking the time and effort to care for your cat's teeth is part of being a responsible pet owner. Although it may require some patience at first, implementing an oral health regimen in one of the best things you can do for your cat.

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