Vet Notes : cats
← Return to ListDental Care for Your Cat
February is Pet Dental Health Month so get ready to celebrate! The majority of pets older than 2 years of age has dental disease. It is important to get involved with the care of your cat's mouth to prevent a minor problem from becoming a major disaster.
Dogs and cats share the most common type of dental disease - plaque on the surfaces of the teeth leading to gingivitis, tartar, and periodontitis. You can read more about this in our articles about dental disease in our pet care section.
Another dental problem that is commonly seen with cats is called resorptive lesions or neck lesions. This refers to erosion of the tooth, typically near where the tooth meets the gum. These are not cavities, but are extremely painful and are the leading cause of tooth loss in cats. We don't really know why cats get these lesions, maybe an immune system that is not acting properly, maybe even a food allergy.
Start February out right by taking your cat to your veterinarian for a thorough dental exam.
Please note that this information does not replace onsite, professional, veterinary care. It is solely for educational purposes. Your pet's medical condition should be evaluated by a veterinarian before any medical decisions are implemented. If there is a potentially life-threatening emergency involving your pet, take your pet to a veterinarian or veterinary facility immediately.
Veterinary Technical Services Department