Dental disease is the most common health problem in adult cats, yet it is largely preventable and severely impacts quality of life when left untreated.
Dental disease in cats represents a widespread and chronic welfare problem that is often invisible to guardians because cats hide pain so effectively. A cat that appears to be eating normally may be living with significant oral pain every day. Early prevention through daily brushing, regular veterinary dental checks, and appropriate diet reduces the prevalence and severity of dental disease. When disease is established, prompt veterinary treatment — including extractions when necessary — relieves suffering that may have persisted silently for months or years. Pain relief after dental procedures is essential and should be standard practice.