What is Periodontal Disease in Cats?
Periodontal disease refers to inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and jaw bone [1]. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. As plaque accumulates, it hardens into tartar that irritates the gums. This leads to gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). Without treatment, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis where the infection spreads deeper, destroying tissue and bone that hold the teeth in place [2].
Periodontal disease is very common in cats, with studies showing 50-90% of cats over 4 years old affected to some degree [1]. The prevalence increases with age. By age 3, most cats have some evidence of periodontal disease [3].
Signs of Periodontal Disease
Some of the most common signs of periodontal disease in cats include:
– Red, swollen or bleeding gums – Inflammation and swelling of the gums, known as gingivitis, is an early sign of periodontal disease. The gums may look puffy and red and bleed easily when touched or brushed. According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, gingivitis is characterized by “swelling, redness, discomfort, and, in severe cases, bleeding where the gums and the teeth meet (the gingival margin).” (source)
– Bad breath – Persistent bad breath or halitosis can indicate an infection and inflammation in the mouth. As bacteria accumulate, it causes a foul odor.
– Loss of teeth – Advanced dental disease can lead to tooth loss. You may notice missing or loose teeth.
– Pain or difficulty eating – Dental problems like gum inflammation, tooth decay, or fractures can make eating uncomfortable. Your cat may show signs of pain when eating, chew on one side, or drop food from their mouth.
Causes and Risk Factors
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. As the plaque thickens, minerals in saliva harden the plaque into tartar that adheres to the teeth. With time, tartar builds up along and under the gum line, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. The bacteria in plaque and tartar can cause inflammation in the gums, known as gingivitis. Left untreated, gingivitis turns into periodontitis as inflammation spreads deeper below the gum line and destroys the tissues that support the teeth. Eventually periodontitis can lead to bone loss and tooth loss if not addressed.
Some key causes and risk factors for periodontal disease in cats include:
- Plaque and tartar buildup on teeth
- Older cats are more prone as plaque accumulates over time
- Dry food does not help clean teeth or reduce plaque, despite some marketing claims (https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dental-disease-in-cats)
- Genetics and breed – some purebred cats like Persians are more susceptible
- Underlying illnesses like kidney disease, diabetes, or FIV can increase risk
Regular dental care and plaque removal are essential to prevent the bacteria overgrowth and inflammation that leads to periodontitis in cats.
Professional Cleanings
Veterinary dental cleanings are an important part of preventing periodontal disease in cats. During a professional cleaning, the veterinarian will thoroughly examine the cat’s teeth and perform a deep cleaning to remove built-up plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline (VCA Hospitals). This is not something that can be replicated at home.
Professional dental cleanings typically require anesthesia so that the vet can fully examine the mouth and use specialized tools to scale and polish all surfaces of the teeth. While anesthesia does carry some risks, it allows the vet to be thorough and safe during the cleaning procedure. The benefits of a deep cleaning generally outweigh the small risks of anesthesia in healthy cats (Forbes).
Regular professional dental cleanings, usually done annually, are considered the gold standard for preventing periodontal disease. By removing all built-up tartar, cleanings disrupt disease progression and reduce bacterial growth in the mouth.
Regular Tooth Brushing
Brushing your cat’s teeth regularly can help remove plaque and prevent periodontal disease. According to the VCA Animal Hospitals, if plaque is not removed through brushing, it thickens and leads to the formation of tartar. The Well Pets blog also notes that brushing cat teeth prevents periodontal diseases by removing plaque.
When brushing your cat’s teeth, be sure to use toothpaste specifically formulated for cats, not human toothpaste. Cat toothpaste comes in appetizing flavors like chicken or fish. Introduce tooth brushing slowly and make it a positive experience for your cat with rewards and training.
With regular tooth brushing using proper technique and cat-safe toothpaste, you can help prevent plaque buildup and reduce your cat’s risk of developing periodontal disease.
Dental Diets and Chews
Dental diets and chews can be an effective way to help prevent plaque buildup and keep your cat’s teeth clean. Special veterinary oral health diets contain kibble that is formulated to scrub the teeth as your cat chews. These diets are sometimes referred to as “therapeutic dental diets.” The kibble is designed with a special shape, texture, and size that helps mechanically reduce plaque and tartar [1].
Dental treats and chews are also available for cats. They are formulated to scrape plaque and tartar off the teeth as your cat chews on them. Some popular dental treats for cats include Greenies Feline Dental Treats and CET Chews for Cats. These function like a toothbrush, scrubbing the teeth clean. Look for treats and chews that have earned the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Acceptance. This means they have been clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar [2].
Regular Checkups
Regular wellness exams with your veterinarian (typically annually) are an important way to catch early signs of periodontal disease in cats. Your vet can perform a thorough oral exam to check for plaque, tartar buildup, gingivitis, and other issues.
These annual dental exams allow vets to identify problems and treat them before they progress. Early intervention can help prevent more severe periodontal disease that requires invasive dental surgery. Regular cleanings and other preventative care are much easier on your cat than extensive procedures later on.
So bring your cat in for their yearly checkup. Allow the vet to fully examine their teeth, gums, and oral cavity. They can determine if your cat needs a professional dental cleaning or other treatments. Catching issues early is crucial for your cat’s long-term dental and overall health.
Avoid Smoking
Secondhand smoke from cigarettes is hazardous to pets, just like it is to humans. Cats that inhale secondhand smoke are at a much higher risk of developing respiratory diseases like asthma and lung cancer [1]. The toxins from cigarette smoke can also build up in a cat’s fur and paws, leading to oral cancer and other issues [2]. Even a small amount of smoke exposure is dangerous.
To protect your cat’s health, do not allow smoking indoors while your cat is present. Take smoking outside and keep your cat safely away from any area where people are smoking. Eliminating secondhand smoke exposure entirely is the best way to reduce your cat’s risk of developing cancer and other cigarette smoke-related illnesses. Be vigilant about keeping your cat away from any source of secondhand smoke.
Water Additives
Adding dental care solutions to your cat’s drinking water can make it easier to improve their oral health. Antiseptic rinses containing chlorhexidine or other disinfecting ingredients can help reduce bacteria growth and prevent plaque buildup when ingested regularly.
Look for veterinary-approved brands like TropiClean Drops Cat Dental Water Additive (https://www.chewy.com/b/water-additives-2725), Oratene Water Additive (https://www.medi-vet.com/cat-dental-water-additives-s/1928.htm), or Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution (https://www.amazon.com/Oxyfresh-Premium-Dental-Solution-Additive/dp/B08CWY3TLW) when choosing a dental water additive for your cat.
The antiseptic ingredients in these products can help reduce plaque and bacteria when ingested regularly with your cat’s water. Just add the recommended amount to your cat’s water bowl each time you refresh it.
Summary
Preventing periodontal disease in cats requires a multi-pronged approach. The most important steps include professional cleanings, regular at-home tooth brushing, and feeding dental diets or treats. While treatment is available for cats with existing dental disease, prevention is the best way to maintain good oral health.
Professional veterinary cleanings under anesthesia are crucial for removing plaque and tartar below the gumline that cannot be reached with brushing. Veterinarians will scale and polish the teeth to get a thorough clean. Most cats need annual dental cleanings.
Brushing your cat’s teeth at home, even just a few times per week, also helps tremendously. Use a soft brush and pet-safe toothpaste. Make it a positive experience with praise and rewards. Ask your vet for pointers on proper technique.
Feeding dental diets or treats is another preventive step. These are formulated to mechanical break down plaque and tartar or chemically inhibit bacteria. Look for the VOHC seal when choosing dental foods.
Regular veterinary oral exams at annual checkups or when you notice any signs of dental disease are also important. Early detection makes treatment easier. With diligent prevention and care, your cat can enjoy a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.