Hygiene
Your cat’s dental health is key to preventing periodontal disease, caused by plaque and tartar buildup. Without regular care, this condition can lead to pain, tooth loss, and serious complications for vital organs.
With 26 baby teeth and 30 permanent teeth, cats—whose diet is carnivorous—have fewer teeth than humans. However, your cat’s teeth and mouth require regular care and attention to detect any issues as early as possible before they become more troublesome. Indeed, a cat’s mouth harbors abundant bacterial flora which, in the presence of food debris, can form dental plaque, then tartar, and contribute to a very common yet often overlooked condition: periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease affects the periodontium—that is, the supporting tissues of the tooth (its "foundations"). As the disease progresses, the gums, then the ligaments, and finally the supporting bone weaken. Teeth begin to loosen, causing pain during eating. Your cat may then struggle to eat, consume less food, or even refuse meals. In advanced stages, the tooth is no longer securely anchored and may eventually fall out. Unfortunately, the issues caused by these bacterial dental plaques can spread: germs may then enter the bloodstream, affecting the heart, liver, or kidneys, with serious consequences for your cat’s overall health. This phenomenon also occurs in humans, which is why doctors and dentists emphasize the importance of oral hygiene—not just to prevent bad breath!
In this chapter, you'll find information on these oral and dental disorders, as well as ways to prevent and treat them. Once the disease reaches advanced stages, it becomes irreversible, and the treatment administered by your veterinarian is quite extensive. Don’t hesitate to start caring for your cat’s mouth early—beginning with your kitten—and be sure to ask your vet for regular check-ups of your cat’s oral health.
Regular descaling and dental care help improve your pet's oral health and freshen their breath.
