Dental Disease in Cats

Oral hygiene is a major health issue for cats, and bad breath is often the very first sign something's wrong. Up to 70% of cats show some degree of periodontal disease by age 2.

Periodontal disease begins with plaque building up on the teeth. Left alone, plaque hardens into tartar, which leads to sensitive, sore, swollen gums and gingivitis - the visible signs of advanced dental disease. But it doesn't stop at the gumline: dental disease has been linked to problems in other organs, including the heart and kidneys, and can shorten a cat's life if left untreated.

Breed plays a role in cats too. Mixed-breed cats tend to experience less dental disease than purebred cats. As for diet type, the idea that dry kibble alone meaningfully prevents tartar has largely been set aside. Most kibble is swallowed with minimal chewing, so it doesn't provide the mechanical cleaning effect once assumed. Neither dry nor canned food, on its own, makes a significant difference in preventing dental disease.

Major veterinary organizations, including the AVMA and AAHA, advise against feeding raw or undercooked animal proteins due to pathogen risk to both pets and people. Hard bones and similar chews are also a known cause of fractured teeth, which makes them a poor fit for cats' smaller, more delicate teeth in particular.

• Daily brushing

  Daily brushing is the single most effective thing you can do, and it's most successful when you start while your cat is young and gets used to the routine early.

• VOHC-accepted dental treats and diets

  Dental treats and diets carrying the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of acceptance are formulated and clinically tested to help reduce plaque and tartar safely.

• Water additives and rinses

  Water additives and dental rinses can help with breath and plaque, though it's worth avoiding any product containing alcohol.

• Regular veterinary checkups

  Regular veterinary checkups let your vet catch early dental disease before it progresses, and a professional cleaning is sometimes the necessary next step even with good home care.