• Our Hospital
    • About
      Memphis Animal
      Clinic
    • Meet Our Team
    • Hospital Tour
    • Payment
      Solutions
    • Client Forms
    • Our Videos
  • Our Services
    • Preventive Care
    • Wellness Exams
    • Vaccinations
    • Puppy/Kitten And
      Senior Pet Care
    • Early Detection Testing
    • Parasite Prevention
      And Control
    • Nutritional Counseling
    • Pharmacy
    • Microchipping
    • General Medicine
    • Pet Allergies And
      Dermatology
    • Dental Care with Dental X-rays
    • Pain Management
    • Surgery
    • Pet Emergency Services
    • Specialty Vet Services
    • International Health Certificates
    • Pocket Pets
    • Boarding
  • Client Forms
  • Resources
    • Blogs
    • News &
      Promotions
    • Pet
      Resources
    • FAQs
    • Wellness Plans
  • Home Delivery
  • Reviews
  • Contact
  • 901-617-4711
Logo of Memphis Animal Clinic
Memphis Animal Clinic Logo
Logo Memphis Animal Clinic
Memphis Animal Clinic
Schedule Your Appointment
901-617-4711
Memphis Animal Clinic Logo
Schedule Your Appointment
901-617-4711
    Memphis Animal Clinic Logo
  • Our Hospital
    • About
      Memphis Animal
      Clinic
    • Meet Our Team
    • Hospital Tour
    • Payment
      Solutions
    • Client Forms
    • Our Videos
  • Our Services
    • Preventive Care
    • Wellness Exams
    • Vaccinations
    • Puppy/Kitten And
      Senior Pet Care
    • Early Detection Testing
    • Parasite Prevention
      And Control
    • Nutritional Counseling
    • Pharmacy
    • Microchipping
    • General Medicine
    • Pet Allergies And
      Dermatology
    • Dental Care with Dental X-rays
    • Pain Management
    • Surgery
    • Pet Emergency Services
    • Specialty Vet Services
    • International Health Certificates
    • Pocket Pets
    • Boarding
  • Client Forms
  • Resources
    • Blogs
    • News &
      Promotions
    • Pet
      Resources
    • FAQs
    • Wellness Plans
  • Home Delivery
  • Reviews
  • Contact

"Improving lives through personalized care. We treat you like family and each patient like our own pet."

"Improving lives through personalized care. We treat you like family and each patient like our own pet."

"Improving lives through personalized care. We treat you like family and each patient like our own pet."

Back to Blog

Common Feline Dental Problems

With feline ownership comes many responsibilities. One of these is the health of your cat’s teeth. While basic needs such as food, water and shelter are obvious to even the newest pet parent, many don’t realize the importance of looking after their pet’s teeth. The health of your cat’s teeth is no exception. Although around 8 in every 10 cats over the age of three experience tooth and gum problems, there are some things that you can do to help preserve your feline’s teeth for as long as possible.
 

About feline teeth

Cat’s teeth are extremely sharp, and have evolved specifically for the way that they eat, cutting and tearing through meat and fish so that chunks can be swallowed whole. This is in contrast to dogs who have flatter back teeth and can grind and chew their food before swallowing. However, the health of your kitty’s teeth isn’t just important for eating. Dental hygiene and the condition of your pet’s teeth has also been linked to their overall health and wellbeing. This is because a number of oral problems, such as gum disease, have been shown to contribute to poor general health and the development of conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
 

Signs that their may be something wrong with your cat’s teeth

So, how do you know if your kitty has a dental problem? As she is unable to tell you verbally, your cat will be relying on you to pick up on some of the symptoms that she may have something wrong with her teeth. These symptoms will vary depending on exactly what the problem is but could include:

  • Bad breath
  • Lack of appetite
  • Eating differently to usual, such as holding her head at a funny angle when eating
  • Salivating excessively
  • Pawing at her mouth
  • Reluctance to have her face and mouth touched

 

Common dental problems in cats

Although dental problems can take a variety of forms, there are four types of oral disease which are more likely to affect your pet.
 

Periodontal disease

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of dental problems in both cats and dogs, and is the primary medical problem seen in all felines. Most cats will already be experiencing some degree of this progressive condition by the time they reach three years of age, but if caught early, it is possible to eradicate the problem completely.

Periodontal disease is caused by the accumulation of bacteria that is found in plaque along the gum line. Over time, these bacteria can spread under the gums where they cause irritation, swelling and bleeding. However, these are among the mildest symptoms and left untreated, the infection can become widespread and extremely painful. Symptoms of moderate to advanced periodontal disease include foul breath, pus in the gums, fever, deterioration of the jaw bone, tooth loss and even infection in other parts of the body including the major organs.

Treatments for periodontal disease including professional cleaning, scaling and root planning, and periodontal pocket surgery may be recommended. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you which treatment is needed depending on the severity of your kitty’s periodontal disease.
 

Tooth resorption

Tooth resorption is a progressive condition and is the most common cause of tooth loss in cats. It is more prevalent in older cats, although it can affect a feline at any age. Tooth resorption is characterized by the loss of tooth structure, starting with the outer enamel surface where lesions will begin to appear. Eventually the lesions can spread throughout the layers of the tooth, finally reaching the pulp which contains the roots which keep the tooth alive.

Tooth resorption is extremely painful, but caught early, it may be possible for your veterinary dentist to remove the affected part of the tooth before the condition spreads. Cats who have been found to suffer from tooth resorption are usually recommended to have six-monthly professional cleans to help keep the condition at bay.
 

Oral cancer

Oral cancer is the 4th most common cancer diagnosed in felines and can occur in various parts of the oral cavity including the tongue, gums, lips and soft palate. Although oral cancer in cats can be fatal, early diagnosis can ensure that your kitty starts treatment as soon as possible, giving her the best chance at making a full recovery.
 

Stomatitis

This painful and debilitating condition is caused by the ulceration or inflammation of the soft tissues that line your cat’s mouth. Although any cat may develop this condition, some breeds have a genetic predisposition to its development including Persians and Himalayans. It is characterized by an oral cavity that is extremely red and swollen, and many cats refuse to eat while suffering from the condition due to the extreme pain it causes.

Treatment for stomatitis often requires the surgical removal of the affected tissues, though improved oral health and professional cleaning may also be beneficial.
 

Contact Memphis Animal Clinic today at 901-617-4711 to discuss your pet’s dental health and the recommendations for his or her pet dental care.

Previous Article
Read More
Next Article
Read More
Appointment Request
Pet Login in Memphis
Meet the team
Our Services
Testimonials
Contact Us

Helpful Articles

  • Dogs
    • Canine Distemper
    • Canine Parvovirus
    • Picking Your Perfect Puppy
  • Cats
    • Feline Distemper
    • Picking Your Perfect Cat
  • Exotics
    • Avian Vet Care
    • Basic Pet Bird Care
    • Exotic Animal Medicine
  • Health
    • Dental Hygiene and Oral Care
    • Euthanasia
    • Feeding Your Pet
    • Flea Prevention and Care
    • General Pet Safety
    • Heartworm
    • Heat Stroke Awareness
    • Pet Grooming
    • Pet Obesity
    • Recognizing An Ill Pet
    • Seasonal Care
    • Ticks
    • Vaccinations and Examinations
  • General
    • Bringing Your Pet Home
    • Pets and Kids
    • How to Adopt
    • Traveling with Your Pet
    • Training Your Pet
    • Finding A Reputable Breeder
Visit Online Pharmacy in Memphis

Enjoy your visit? Review us here!

https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/how-to-brush-your-pets-teeth.html How to Brush Your Pet's Teeth #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/flea-and-tick-preventives.html Flea and Tick Preventives #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/feline-immunodeficiency-virus.html Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/gastrointestinal-obstruction.html Gastrointestinal Obstruction #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/choosing-the-right-pet-cats.html Choosing the Right Pet: Cats #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/fleas-mites-and-ticks.html Fleas, Mites and Ticks #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/pet-microchipping.html Pet Microchipping #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/feline-leukemia-virus.html Feline Leukemia Virus (FelV) #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/arthritis.html Arthritis #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/vaccines.html Vaccines #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/cancer-in-pets.html Cancer in Pets #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/allergies.html Allergies #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/pet-insurance.html Pet Insurance #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/summer-pet-hazards.html Summer Pet Hazards #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/breathing-problems.html Breathing Problems #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/obedience-and-training.html Obedience and Training #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/daily-pet-responsibilities.html Daily Pet Responsibilities #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/when-to-visit-your-veterinarian.html When to Visit Your Veterinarian #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/blood-tests-for-pets.html Blood Tests for Pets #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/hyperthyroidism.html Hypothyroidism #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/holiday-pet-hazards.html Holiday Pet Hazards #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/traveling-with-your-pet.html Traveling With Your Pet #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/heart-disease.html Heart Disease #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/your-pets-first-veterinary-exam.html Your Pet's First Veterinary Exam #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/vision-problems.html Vision Problems #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/separation-anxiety.html Separation Anxiety #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/hyperthyroidism.html Hyperthyroidism #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/traveling-with-your-pets.html Traveling With Your Pets #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/kennel-cough-bordetella.html Kennel Cough (Bordetella) #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/vomiting.html Vomiting #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/salmonella.html Salmonella #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/diarrhea-in-felines.html Diarrhea in Felines #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/grooming-your-pet.html Grooming Your Pet #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/anal-sac-disease.html Anal Sac Disease #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/obesity.html Obesity #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/periodontal-disease.html Periodontal Disease #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/senior-pet-care.html Senior Pet Care #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/saying-goodbye.html Saying Goodbye #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/vestibular-disease.html Vestibular Disease #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/hip-dysplasia.html Hip Dysplasia #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/spaying-and-neutering.html Spaying and Neutering #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/vaccination-and-your-new-pet.html Vaccination and Your New Pet #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/foreign-bodies-in-esophagus.html Foreign Bodies in Esophagus #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/epilepsy.html Epilepsy #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/diabetes.html Diabetes #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/how-old-is-my-pet.html How Old Is My Pet? #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/pet-sitters.html Pet Sitters #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/hookworm-roundworm-tapeworm-and-whipworm.html Hookworm, Roundworm, Tapeworm, and Whipworm #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/heartworm-prevention.html Heartworm Prevention #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/diarrhea-in-canines.html Diarrhea in Canines #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/cpr-for-pets.html CPR for Pets #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/your-pets-toys.html Your Pet's Toys #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/potentially-dangerous-foods.html Potentially Dangerous Foods #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/preventing-dog-bites.html Preventing Dog Bites #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/heartbeat-arrhythmia.html Heartbeat Arrhythmia #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/lyme-disease.html Lyme Disease #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/choosing-the-right-pet-dogs.html Choosing the Right Pet: Dogs #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/dogs-in-parked-cars.html Dogs in Parked Cars #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/congestive-heart-failure.html Congestive Heart Failure #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/canine-parvovirus.html Canine Parvovirus (CPV) #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/obesity-and-your-pet.html Obesity and Your Pet #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/5-tips-about-flea-prevention.html 5 Tips about Flea Prevention May 15, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/identifying-treating-tick-borne-diseases-in-dogs.html Identifying & Treating Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs June 15, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/common-feline-dental-problems.html Common Feline Dental Problems January 11, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/the-importance-of-brushing-your-cat-s-teeth.html The Importance of Brushing your Cat’s Teeth February 15, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/common-household-and-outdoor-plants-that-are-toxic-to-dogs.html Common Household and Outdoor Plants that are Toxic to Dogs March 15, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/how-is-heartworm-disease-prevented.html How is Heartworm Disease Prevented? April 13, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/blood-work.html 5 Common Questions About Blood Work And your Pet July 20, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/prepare-your-pet-for-vaccine.html Prepare your Pet for Vaccines August 15, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/the-importance-of-updating-your-cats-vaccinations-before-cat-boarding.html The Importance of Updating Your Cat’s Vaccinations Before Cat Boarding September 14, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/why-to-keep-your-black-cat-close-during-Halloween-season.html Why to keep your black cat close during Halloween season October 15, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/why-parasite-prevention-is-so-important-for-senior-dogs.html Why Parasite Prevention is so Important for Senior Dogs November 15, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/importance-of-pet-dental-exams.html Importance of Pet Dental Exams December 14, 2018 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/what-is-involved-in-a-puppy-wellness-care-exam.html What is Involved in a Puppy Wellness Care Exam? January 17, 2019 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/5-best-pet-dental-treats.html 5 Best Pet Dental Treats February 27, 2019 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/frequently-asked-pet-boarding-questions.html Frequently asked pet boarding questions March 15, 2019 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/the-dangers-of-heartworms-in-dogs.html The dangers of heartworms in dogs April 28, 2019 #
https://www.memphisanimalclinic.com/blog/pet-wellness-exam.html Why Does My Pet Need an Annual Wellness Exam? August 1, 2019 #

Request Appointment

Thank you
You are missing required fields.
Dynamic Error Description
There was an error processing this form.

Main

  • About Us
  • Meet the Team
  • Veterinary Care
  • News
  • Boarding
  • Grooming
  • Resources
  • Home Delivery
  • Reviews
  • Contact
  • Sitemap
aaha

Contact Information

  • Address
    733 East Parkway South Cooper-Young/Midtown Memphis, TN 38104
  • Phone
    901-617-4711
  • Email
    Send Email
Memphis Animal Clinic

Animal Hospital Hours

  • Monday:
    7:30am - 6:00pm
  • Tuesday:
    7:30am - 6:00pm
  • Wednesday:
    7:30am - 6:00pm
  • Thursday:
    7:30am - 6:00pm
  • Friday:
    7:30am - 6:00pm
  • Saturday:
    7:30am - 12:00pm
  • Sunday:
    CLOSED
Memphis Animal Clinic
Veterinary Websites by Roya
Memphis Animal Clinic Logo
Memphis Animal Clinic logo
Memphis Animal Clinic Logo
Southern Veterinary Partners ©

Send Us A Message

Form submitted successfully!
You are missing required fields.
Dynamic Error Description
There was an error processing this form.
logo

Request Appointment

Complete the form below and We will get back to you to confirm your schedule.
Your Informations is SAFE with us
Form submitted successfully!
You are missing required fields.
Dynamic Error Description
There was an error processing this form.

Login


Forgot Password?

OR

Sign in with Facebook Sign in with Google


Looking to create an account ?
Already have an account? Login

Save Search


Saved Searches

Update Profile