Dental disease affects an estimated 70% of cats over three years of age and is among the most common causes of chronic pain in domestic cats. Most cases are preventable or manageable with appropriate care.
Cats with dental disease experience chronic oral pain that affects eating behaviour, social interaction, and quality of life. Because cats hide pain as a survival response, dental suffering often goes unrecognised for months or years. Weight loss from reluctance to eat and changes in food preference are often the first owner-noticed signs. Post-dental treatment cats frequently show dramatic improvements in activity and affection, demonstrating the scale of suffering that preceded treatment. Regular veterinary dental checks and owner-led prevention are essential.