Dental disease affects the vast majority of adult cats, causing chronic pain that is frequently unrecognized because cats hide discomfort as a survival behavior.
Dental disease in cats causes significant chronic pain that profoundly affects quality of life. Cats with painful mouths typically reduce grooming, become less interactive, sleep more, and may guard their faces. Because pain expression is suppressed in prey species, owners often discover severe dental disease only when cats stop eating. Regular veterinary dental assessment and preventive care, including home tooth brushing when tolerated, are essential for feline welfare.