How can I tell if my cat has bad teeth?
In this article
<h1>How to Spot Dental Problems in Cats: A Vet-Approved Guide</h1>
<p>Cat dental health is one of the most overlooked aspects of feline care. Yet, dental disease is incredibly common — by age 3, over 70% of cats show signs of dental issues like gingivitis, tartar buildup, or even tooth resorption. Spotting these problems early can prevent pain, infections, and costly dental surgeries later on.</p>
<p>In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you identify the most common signs of dental disease in cats and explain when to seek veterinary help.</p>
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<h2>🦷 1. Bad Breath (Halitosis)</h2>
<p>If your cat has <strong>bad breath</strong> that smells more than just “fishy,” it could be a sign of <strong>periodontal disease</strong>, <strong>bacterial infection</strong>, or even an underlying health issue like kidney disease. Foul-smelling breath is one of the earliest signs of dental trouble in cats.</p>
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<h2>😿 2. Excessive Drooling or Bloody Saliva</h2>
<p>While some cats drool when purring, <strong>excessive drooling</strong> or <strong>bloody saliva</strong> may indicate pain, dental trauma, or a broken tooth. It can also be a sign of oral tumors or advanced gum disease.</p>
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<h2>🍽️ 3. Change in Appetite or Eating Habits</h2>
<p>If your cat is suddenly refusing food, chewing slowly, or dropping kibble from their mouth, it's time to check for <strong>oral pain</strong> or <strong>tooth sensitivity</strong>. Dental problems make eating painful and may cause a cat to avoid crunchy food altogether.</p>
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<h2>⚖️ 4. Weight Loss</h2>
<p>Gradual <strong>weight loss in cats</strong> may result from reduced food intake due to <strong>tooth pain</strong>, sore gums, or infected teeth. If your cat is losing weight and becoming lethargic, schedule a dental check-up with your vet immediately.</p>
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<h2>🦷 5. Difficulty Chewing or Dropping Food</h2>
<p>Watch for cats who <strong>chew on one side of their mouth</strong>, eat slowly, or seem uncomfortable during meals. Difficulty chewing is a major red flag for cat dental disease and should not be ignored.</p>
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<h2>🌸 6. Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums</h2>
<p>Healthy cat gums should be light pink and firm. If you notice <strong>red gums</strong>, swelling, or bleeding while brushing, your cat may have <strong>gingivitis</strong> — the first stage of <strong>periodontal disease in cats</strong>.</p>
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<h2>🟡 7. Yellow or Brown Teeth & Tartar Buildup</h2>
<p><strong>Discolored teeth</strong> with <strong>visible yellow or brown tartar</strong> are clear indicators of poor dental hygiene. Left untreated, this buildup can lead to infection, tooth loss, and damage to internal organs.</p>
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<h2>🦷 8. Loose or Missing Teeth</h2>
<p>Cats should not lose adult teeth. If you notice <strong>loose or missing teeth</strong>, it's likely the result of advanced dental disease, trauma, or a genetic condition such as <strong>tooth resorption</strong>.</p>
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<h2>🐾 9. Pawing at the Mouth or Face</h2>
<p>A cat that’s <strong>pawing at their mouth</strong> or rubbing their face repeatedly may be trying to relieve pain or irritation. This behavior often goes hand-in-hand with broken teeth, gum inflammation, or oral abscesses.</p>
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<h2>👅 10. Lumps, Growths, or Sores in the Mouth</h2>
<p>Open your cat’s mouth and inspect for any <strong>oral growths</strong>, sores on the gums, tongue, or lips. These could be benign but should always be checked by a vet — especially if they bleed or grow rapidly.</p>
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<h2>😾 11. Behavioral Changes</h2>
<p><strong>Dental pain in cats</strong> can cause them to become more withdrawn, less playful, or even aggressive when touched near the face. If your affectionate feline suddenly becomes irritable, their mouth could be the cause.</p>
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<h2>📋 What to Do If You Spot These Symptoms</h2>
<ul>
<li>Book a <strong>vet dental exam</strong> immediately.</li>
<li>Ask your vet about <strong>professional dental cleaning for cats</strong>.</li>
<li>Start brushing your cat’s teeth regularly with a <strong>cat-safe toothbrush and toothpaste</strong>.</li>
<li>Use vet-approved dental treats or water additives to maintain oral hygiene.</li>
</ul>
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<h2>💬 Vet Tip from Dr. Duncan Houston</h2>
<blockquote>
“Dental disease is one of the most preventable conditions in cats, yet it remains one of the most common. If you spot bad breath, tartar, or bleeding gums — don’t wait. Early treatment can save teeth and improve overall health.”<br>
— <strong>Dr. Duncan Houston, BVSc</strong>
</blockquote>
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<h2>🛒 Cat Dental Health Essentials</h2>
<p>Want to support your cat’s oral health at home? Check out our vet-recommended dental products and enrichment toys at <a href="https://purrz.com" target="_blank">Purrz.com</a>.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://purrz.com" target="_blank">Vet-approved dental toys</a></li>
<li><a href="https://purrz.com" target="_blank">Soft beds for post-dental recovery</a></li>
<li><a href="https://purrz.com" target="_blank">Enrichment products to keep cats happy and healthy</a></li>
</ul>
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<h2>🐱 Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Dental Health</h2>
<p><strong>Cat dental care</strong> isn’t just about fresh breath — it’s essential for their long-term health. From <strong>tooth resorption</strong> to <strong>infected gums</strong>, dental disease can cause immense pain and affect organs like the heart and kidneys.</p>
<p>Spotting early signs and booking regular vet dental checkups can add years to your cat’s life.</p>
<p>✅ <a href="https://purrz.com" target="_blank"><strong>Explore our full range of vet-approved cat products now</strong></a></p>
