Feline Dental Disease: Prevention and Welfare

Dental disease causes chronic pain in a large proportion of cats and is one of the most underrecognised sources of feline welfare compromise.

Key Facts

Over 70% of cats over 3 years have some degree of dental disease
Tooth resorption affects an estimated 30-40% of adult cats causing significant pain
Cats rarely show obvious signs of dental pain due to their stoic nature
Feline oral squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common and aggressive feline cancers
Regular veterinary dental examination allows early identification of developing disease

Welfare Considerations

Cats with dental disease suffer chronic pain that affects eating, grooming, and behaviour while owners often remain unaware. Tooth resorption, a progressive and painful condition unique to cats, requires extraction for treatment. Regular veterinary dental examination, professional scaling under anaesthetic when needed, and owner vigilance for behavioural changes are essential for maintaining feline oral welfare. Prevention is far more achievable than treatment for established dental disease.

What You Can Do

Arrange annual veterinary dental examinations for cats from 2 years of age
Introduce gentle tooth brushing to kittens as early as possible
Monitor for signs of dental pain including drooling, pawing at the face, and food preference changes
Follow veterinary advice on scaling and extractions promptly to prevent disease progression
Ask your vet about dental diets and chews that may complement professional dental care