Tooth resorption (TR) in cats is a condition in which the dentin (hard tissue making up the body of the teeth) erodes and becomes irreversibly destroyed. In this article, I, Ivana Crnec, DVM, will explain the basics of tooth resorption.
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Content:
- Tooth Resorption Cats Symptoms
- What Causes Tooth Resorption in Cats
- Cat Tooth Resorption Treatment
- Conclusion
Tooth Resorption Cats Symptoms
The top two symptoms of TR in cats are trouble eating and changes in behavior.
- Trouble Eating: Tooth resorption makes eating a challenge. Cats have trouble chewing, drop the food while chewing, or chatter their jaws while attempting to eat. Cats with TR are often seen running away from the food or water bowl, even if using a fancy water solution like the Petcube Fountain.
- Behavioral Changes: “Feline TR is a very common condition that is known to be painful,” explains Brook Niemiec, DVM, in an article for Today’s Veterinary Practice. Pain makes cats more irritable.
Other symptoms are drooling (bloody saliva), pawing at the face, and weight loss.
Studies say that feline TR “should be taken into account in all cases of animals with any signs of oral disease, including gingivitis and/or dental plaque with preserved appetite.”
What Causes Tooth Resorption in Cats
The exact causes of tooth resorption in cats are poorly understood. Possible culprits include inflammation from periodontal disease, mineral imbalances, excessive vitamin D in the diet, and frequent vomiting.
“Risk of tooth resorption in cats increases with age,” says a 2024 study. The study also found that “dental calculus, gingivitis, and periodontitis were risk factors for tooth resorption.” Certain breeds, like Siamese, Persians, and Abyssinians, are predisposed to tooth resorption.
Interestingly, the lower premolar teeth are most likely to be affected by lesions evolving into tooth resorption.
Cat Tooth Resorption Treatment
The treatment for cat tooth resorption depends on the disease’s stage. The treatment is decided based on a dental radiograph, and options include:
- Fluoride Varnish: Minor cases are managed by applying fluoride varnish to harden the enamel and desensitize the pulp.
- Restorative Fillings: Fillings, such as chemical and light-cured composite or glass ionomers, can be used to restore the surface of affected teeth.
- Teeth Extractions: Severely affected teeth must be extracted. TR makes teeth fragile, and most cats are referred to a veterinary dental specialist for extractions.
- Special Diets: Cats with multiple tooth extractions should be fed wet diets. Some vets also recommend special formulas with lower vitamin D levels for TR susceptible cats.
“Untreated lesions can lead to infections, tooth fractures, and even serious heart problems if bacteria makes its way to the root canal due to the lesions,” warns a Reddit user.
Veterinary treatment is expensive, and having pet insurance relieves the financial burden. We recommend the Petcube Emergency Fund.
It covers up to $3,000 for emergency vet bills and offers unlimited access to online vets. As a reward for reading our article, we are giving 27% off the emergency fund by using this link.
Conclusion
Tooth resorption in cats is a common issue that requires prompt veterinary attention. Regular checkups and dental examinations are vital for early diagnosis and successful treatment of TR in felines.
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