Dental disease affects the majority of cats over three years old, causing chronic pain that often goes unrecognized — early prevention and treatment are among the most impactful welfare interventions for companion cats.
Dental disease represents one of the most significant unrecognized welfare burdens in companion cats. Because cats evolved to hide signs of weakness, owners frequently do not recognize dental pain — the cat continues eating (sometimes swallowing food whole to avoid chewing pain), appears normal, and receives no treatment. The chronic pain of periodontal disease and tooth resorption persists for months or years. Owners who undertake dental treatment frequently report dramatic behavioral changes in their cat post-procedure — increased affection, playfulness, and appetite — suggesting the animal had been chronically suppressing pain signals. Annual veterinary oral examinations and prompt treatment of identified disease are the key welfare interventions. Professional cleaning under anesthesia, despite requiring anesthetic risk assessment, is far safer than untreated chronic dental pain.