Last Updated: February 25, 2026
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Dental disease in cats is both more common and more impactful than you may think. Studies estimate that up to 70 percent of cats over the age of three show signs of dental disease, which can range from mild gingivitis to severe periodontal disease. If left untreated, dental disease can lead to chronic pain, tooth loss, and systemic health problems affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver.
The most prevalent types of feline dental disease include gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), periodontitis (inflammation affecting deeper structures around the tooth), and tooth resorption, a painful condition in which the tooth structure begins to break down. These conditions are often caused by plaque and tartar buildup resulting from poor oral hygiene.
Does Your Cat Have Dental Disease? What to Watch For
Signs of dental disease in cats may be subtle, as cats are adept at hiding pain and discomfort. Here’s what to look for.
Common Symptoms of Dental Disease in Cats
- Bad breath
- Red or swollen gums
- Drooling
- Difficulty eating, perhaps favouring one side of the mouth or choosing to eat only soft food
- Pawing at the mouth
- Changes in appetite
- Noticeable decrease in grooming behaviour
- Irritability
- Visible tartar or calculus on the teeth
How to Prevent Dental Disease in Cats
Brushing your cat’s teeth is one of the most effective ways to prevent dental disease. Start slow and early. Specially formulated dental treats and dental water additives has also been shown to reduce plaque and tartar.
What to Do If You Suspect Your Cat Has Dental Disease
If you suspect your cat has dental disease, an oral examination by your vet is needed—professional dental cleaning under anesthesia may be recommended. Remember, dental disease not only causes pain and discomfort but impacts your cat’s overall wellbeing!
How to Help Cats with Dental Disease: Modern Cats Product Picks
A Brush-Free Bad Breath Solution
Bid stinky cat breath adieu with the Pet Dental Water Additive from Oxyfresh. Just add this brush-free solution for bad breath, tartar, irritated gums, and cleaner teeth to your cat’s drinking water. Tasteless and odourless, it neutralizes bad-breath-causing sulfur compounds and destroys bacteria responsible for plaque and tartar buildup, helping prevent periodontal disease. ($18, oxyfresh.com)
A Toothbrush Just For Cats
The Ryercat toothbrush is designed especially for a cat’s anatomy, making a dreaded task stress-free! The dual-sided micro heads sized for feline mouths mean brushing is safe, easy, and gentle. ($20, ryercat.com)
A Soothing Oral Gel
Oratene Enzymatic Brushless Oral Gel provides intensive carefor inflamed gums and oral conditions like periodontal disease, thanks to its potent enzymes. The patented, antiseptic formula is flavourless—just spread on your cat’s gums, no brushing needed—to soothe and maintain gum health. ($13, zymox.com)
A Cat Toy that Cleans Teeth
Canophera’s all-natural braided rope CocoBall cat toy is made from 100% all-natural coconut husk fibers for playtime fun that simultaneously cleans your cat’s teeth! ($7, canophera.com)
This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Cat magazine. Subscribe today!
