False or Tooth?
Bad breath is a normal occurrence in cats. We just have to accept that they are animals.
False! Bad breath is caused by bacteria. Over time, bacteria builds up in teeth and causes inflammation. This causes bleeding of the gums. This is the perfect place for bacteria to enter your cat’s bloodstream, reach their liver, kidneys, and heart. This can lead to serious diseases that are more dangerous than bad breath.
Since my cat is just one year old, I don’t have to worry about her teeth yet.
False! False! Even though most cats will have all their adult teeth by 6 months of age, there are some things you can do to get them used to having their teeth inspected and touched. At 6 months, dental diets and treats may be introduced. During the first visit to the clinic, we discuss all options in detail.
My cat is eating well, so it’s not possible for her to have any problems with her teeth.
It’s true, but it’s sad: Most cats with the worst dental problems are still eating. Cats can hide their pain and weaknesses well. We often notice pain in the cat’s mouth during a thorough physical exam. Owners often don’t realize how badly their cat’s dental issues have affected their health until it is too late. It is common to see a change in your cat’s behavior, grooming, and affection.
His teeth are looking fine, so they must be healthy.
False again, the most common type “decay” or cavity in cats is called “resorptive lesions.” These areas of decay start in the middle of the tooth and move outwards. These are just a few of the reasons dental x-rays can be so useful in diagnosing disease. While we can detect signs of decay or disease in a simple exam, such as pain reactions or gingivitis symptoms, x-rays are required to diagnose the cat’s dental health.
It is just too difficult to care for my cat’s teeth at the house.
False! True! All of us can relate. It makes a big difference for cats who brush their teeth regularly. But if that is not possible, there are other options:
My cat is too old to have a dental procedure.
False. Age is not a disease. Many of the procedures that we perform are for older cats. Dental disease should not be ignored if there are no contraindications to the procedure. We fully assess your cat’s health before we anesthetize it for a procedure.
Many cat owners are surprised at the changes in their cats after treating dental disease. The “hidden” disease or pain can often be treated and play, socialization, grooming, and many other behaviors will improve.
