Unfortunately, oral diseases in cats are very frequent, mainly in adult and elderly individuals. One of the greatest threats to the oral he alth of our kitties is periodontal disease, which includes numerous infections that can affect the gums and the bone structure that supports the teeth.
If your cat has a lot of tartar or abscesses in the mouth, these could be symptoms of Feline Periodontitis. Of course, we remember the need to quickly consult the veterinarian to find out the state of he alth of your kitten and proceed with a correct diagnosis. However, in this new article on our site, you will be able to learn about the main causes, the symptomsand ways of treatment for periodontal disease in cats, as well as theirprevention
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease comprises various infectious conditions that generate a progressive inflammationin the bony and muscular structures that surround the teeth and provide them with support. Currently, it is estimated that close to 80% of the global feline population suffers from periodontitis. This disease is the main cause of tooth loss in adult cats and can severely threaten their he alth.
Causes of Feline Periodontitis
Like most dental problems, periodontal disease begins with the formation of bacterial plaque on the teeth and gums. When we don't brush our cats' teeth well, food remains accumulate between their teeth and on their gums. These residues serve as food for the bacteria housed in the cat's mouth, which reproduce rapidly, forming plaques.
As saliva comes into contact with these plaques, its minerals react with tooth enamel and bacteria, forming tartarThen, the tartar adheres to the teeth and the bacteria continue to reproduce and feed, making their way under the gums and causing gingivitis (inflammation in the gums). When gingivitis is not treated quickly, bacteria reach the tissues and bones that support the teeth, causing periodontal disease.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease in Cats
Periodontal disease progresses quickly and silently, so it is essential to be attentive to its first symptoms to allow an early diagnosis. Remember to periodically check your kitty's mouth and don't hesitate to go to the vet immediately when faced with an unusual observation.
Clinical signs of feline periodontitis
- Halitosis (bad breath).
- Bleeding and redness of the gums.
- Excessive drooling, which may be accompanied by blood.
- Difficulty chewing, which often causes loss of appetite.
- Constant urge to touch or scratch the mouth.
- Swelling of the mouth and face.
- Runny nose.
When not treated promptly, periodontitis causes gum recession, engages the nerves and leads totooth loss If the bacteria continue to advance and reach the animal's bloodstream, they can affect the heart, liver and kidneys, causing infections and possible insufficiencies. In more advanced cases, periodontal disease can be fatal for cats, therefore, it requires immediate attention from a veterinarian.
Remember that the loss of teeth in adult cats and the consequences that we have shown you of this dental disease in cats affect and compromise their well-being, as well as your lifestyle. Suspecting a disease in cats of the mouth, go to your trusted veterinarian.
Feline periodontitis treatment
When you observe any anomaly in your cat's mouth, it is essential to consult your trusted veterinarian immediately. At the clinic, the professional will be able to verify the presence of tartar and gingivitis, in addition to requesting clinical tests and X-rays to see the progress of bacteria in the bone structure and in the body. If a diagnosis of periodontal disease is confirmed, the treatment will depend fundamentally on the severity of the infectious process in each animal.
Generally, specific antibiotics are given to kill and control the spread of bacteria. The specialist can also recommend a feed for cats with gingivitis. When the disease is moderate and there is no bone loss, surgical intervention to remove tartar and dental polishing are often effective in reversing dental damage.
However, when periodontitis is more advanced, tooth extraction is usually unavoidable, as well as the application of antibiotics below of the gums. In addition, in severe cases, the treatment may also include other organs affected by the bacterial infection.
How to prevent periodontal disease in cats?
To prevent your kitty from developing periodontal disease, it is essential to provide him with adequate oral hygiene throughout his life. This must necessarily include regular brushings with products suitable for cats. If you have never brushed your kitty's teeth or want to learn how to do it correctly, discover tips for cleaning a cat's teeth on our site. In addition, it is important to regularly check your cat's mouth and go to the vet quickly when you observe any change in color, unpleasant aroma, bleeding or the absence of any teeth.
You can also ask your veterinarian about the alternative of switching your cat's dry food to a raw or BARF diet. Natural feeding with fresh and raw products prevents the accumulation of residues in the teeth and facilitates the oral hygiene of felines. In addition to favoring the digestion, the immune system and the metabolism of our cats.
Also remember that all cats, whether mixed-breed or of a defined breed, must receive adequate preventive medicine throughout their lives. Visits to the vet every 6 months, vaccination and deworming, a balanced diet and physical and mental stimulation are essential to strengthen your cat's immune system and preserve their good he alth
