Dental disease affects 70-80% of cats over 3 years of age. Daily home care combined with regular professional cleaning dramatically reduces the burden of dental pain.
Dental disease is among the most common sources of chronic pain in cats yet is frequently undetected because cats continue to eat despite significant oral discomfort. By the time owners notice reduced appetite or facial swelling, disease is often advanced. Daily toothbrushing — ideally introduced as kittens — is the most effective prevention but requires consistent commitment. Most cats will accept brushing when introduced gradually using positive reinforcement. Regular veterinary dental examinations allow professional assessment of areas that owners cannot examine, and dental cleaning under anesthesia before disease becomes severe prevents more invasive future procedures. The welfare benefit of preventing dental pain through consistent home care and professional monitoring is substantial.