Cat Dental Care in Athens, AL
Dental health is an important part of your cat’s overall wellness, yet dental disease is one of the most common health issues seen in cats. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease, tooth loss, and ongoing pain. If left untreated, bacteria from dental infections can also affect vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. Routine feline dental care helps protect your cat’s comfort, health, and quality of life.
At Village Veterinary Clinic, we provide comprehensive cat dental care for families in Athens, AL and the surrounding communities. Our veterinary team offers thorough dental exams, professional dental cleanings, and treatment for feline dental disease, all tailored to your cat’s individual needs. During your cat’s dental visit, we focus on evaluating oral health, removing plaque and tartar, and identifying any dental concerns that may require additional care.
If you'd like to request a dental care appointment for your cat, give us a call or request an appointment online!
Learn more about Cat Dental Care
The information below explains our cat dental services in greater detail, including common signs of dental disease, what to expect during a cat dental procedure, and ways to support your cat’s dental health at home. If your cat has bad breath, difficulty eating, or it has been over a year since their last dental evaluation, our Athens, AL veterinary team is here to help keep their smile healthy.
Why is dental care important for my cat?
Dental care is extremely important for cats because dental disease causes chronic pain, infection, and inflammation. Cats often hide discomfort, so dental problems may go unnoticed while significantly affecting their quality of life. Untreated dental disease can also impact the heart, kidneys, and immune system.
How often should I brush my cat’s teeth?
Ideally, you should brush your cat’s teeth daily. If that’s not possible, brushing at least 3–4 times per week can still significantly reduce plaque buildup. This may fall into the category of easier said than done. It is best to start when your cat is a kitten to help preserve their dental health.
What type of toothbrush and toothpaste should I use for my cat?
Use:
- A cat-specific toothbrush or finger brush
- Veterinary-approved cat toothpaste
Can I use a human toothbrush and toothpaste?
A soft human toothbrush may be used in some cases, but human toothpaste should never be used. It contains fluoride which can be toxic to cats (plus, most cats don’t care for the mint flavor).
What are the signs of dental problems in cats?
Common signs include:
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Drooling
- Difficulty eating or dropping food
- Pawing at the mouth
- Weight loss
- Behavioral changes or hiding
How can I tell if my cat has a toothache?
Cats rarely cry out in pain or stop eating completely. Signs of a toothache may include:
- Chewing on one side
- Avoiding dry food or showing a preference for wet food.
- Sudden aggression or withdrawal (hiding)
- Excessive drooling
- Facial swelling, especially on one side or below the eye
What are the most common cat tooth infection symptoms?
Symptoms include:
- Severe bad breath
- Red or inflamed gums
- Swelling around the face or jaw
- Pus or discharge from the mouth
- Lethargy or loss of appetite
What are the common dental diseases in cats?
Common feline dental diseases include:
- Periodontal disease
- Gingivitis
- Tooth resorption (very common and painful)
- Stomatitis
- Tooth root abscesses
- Fractured teeth
How often should my cat have a professional dental cleaning?
Most cats benefit from a professional dental cleaning once a year. Some cats with dental disease may need more frequent cleanings as recommended by their veterinarian.
What can I do at home to prevent dental disease in my cat?
- Brush your cat’s teeth regularly
- Offer dental diets or treats approved by the VOHC
- Use dental water additives
- Schedule regular veterinary exams
Is bad breath in cats always a sign of dental disease?
Bad breath is not normal in cats and is most often a sign of dental disease. In rare cases, it can indicate other medical issues such as kidney disease or diabetes, so it should always be evaluated.
Can my cat’s diet affect their dental health?
Yes. Dental-specific diets and treats can help reduce plaque and tartar. Wet food does not clean teeth. Diet should be combined with brushing and regular veterinary care.
What are the risks of not treating dental disease in cats?
Untreated dental disease can cause:
- Chronic pain
- Tooth loss
- Severe infections
- Jaw bone damage
- Systemic illness affecting major organs
- Reduced quality and length of life
How can I make brushing my cat’s teeth easier?
- Start slowly and be patient
- Use flavored, cat-specific toothpaste
- Brush at the same time each day
- Reward your cat afterward
- Gradually build up to full brushing
Are there any dental treats or toys that can help keep my cat’s teeth clean?
Yes. Look for VOHC-approved dental treats and toys. These help reduce plaque but do not replace brushing or professional cleanings.
What should I expect during a professional dental cleaning for my cat?
Your cat will:
- Have a pre-anesthetic exam and bloodwork
- Be placed under general anesthesia
- Receive full-mouth scaling and polishing
- Have dental X-rays taken
- Have painful or diseased teeth extracted if needed
Most cats go home the same day.
Can cats get cavities, and how are they treated?
True cavities are rare in cats. However, cats commonly develop tooth resorption, which looks similar but is far more painful. Treatment usually involves tooth extraction.
Why is my cat losing teeth?
Tooth loss is usually caused by:
- Advanced periodontal disease
- Tooth resorption
- Severe infection
- Trauma
Why would my cat need to have teeth pulled?
Teeth are extracted when they are:
- Painful
- Infected
- Loose
- Resorbing
- Beyond repair
Cats typically feel much better after painful teeth are removed.
Questions?
Reach out to speak with a trusted veterinarian about your cat's dental care.
Or request an appointment online!