Companion Animals

Cat Dental Extractions Welfare

Dental extraction is the most common surgical procedure in cats and profoundly affects their quality of life when performed appropriately.

Key Facts

Over 50 percent of cats over 3 years old have clinically significant dental disease
Tooth resorption affects over 50 percent of cats over 6 years old
Cats with dental pain often continue eating despite significant discomfort, masking suffering
Post-extraction cats frequently show dramatic behavioral improvement within days
Full-mouth extraction may be necessary for cats with severe stomatitis or resorption

Welfare Considerations

Dental pain in cats causes chronic suffering that owners often do not recognize. Appropriate extraction relieves sustained discomfort and can transform quality of life for affected cats.

What You Can Do

Have your cat's teeth examined annually under sedation if necessary
Do not delay recommended extractions - dental pain is chronic and significant
Learn signs of dental pain in cats including pawing at mouth and reduced grooming