Companion Animals

Cat Feline Tooth Resorption Welfare

Feline tooth resorption is an extremely common and painful dental condition that causes chronic suffering in a large proportion of adult cats.

Key Facts

Tooth resorption affects over 50 percent of cats over 6 years old
The process erodes tooth structure from within, causing hypersensitivity and pain
Cats often continue eating despite significant pain, masking the condition from owners
Radiographic examination is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning
Extraction is the only treatment; affected teeth cannot be restored

Welfare Considerations

Cats with tooth resorption experience chronic oral pain that affects every aspect of their daily life. Because cats hide pain so effectively, diagnosis requires proactive veterinary examination.

What You Can Do

Request dental radiographs at annual checkups to detect tooth resorption early
Do not delay extraction of teeth with confirmed resorption lesions
Learn behavioral signs of dental pain in cats including yawning suddenly and dropping food