Dental Pain in Cats: Signs, Causes & How to Help

Dental pain is common but often goes unnoticed in cats. Many cats hide their discomfort, making it hard for owners to realise there’s a problem. Recognising and treating dental issues early is crucial to prevent severe pain, infections, and other health complications. Good dental care not only improves your cat’s comfort but also supports their overall well-being.

Did you know: Periodontal disease affects ~15.2% of UK cats annually

A large scale Vet Compass analysis of 18,249 cats in 2019 showed that 15.2% were diagnosed with periodontal disease within a year making it the single most common feline health issue in the dataset

How to Tell if a Cat Has Dental Problems

Cats rarely show obvious signs of pain, but you can watch for subtle behavioural and physical clues.

Behavioural signs:

• Reduced appetite or reluctance to eat, especially hard food

• Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face

• Bad breath that persists (halitosis)

Physical signs:

• Excessive drooling

• Visible tartar or discoloration on the teeth

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

Signs of Tooth Pain in Cats

Cats are masters at hiding pain, but dental discomfort often shows through changes in behaviour and eating habits.

1. Avoiding Hard Food or Chewing on One Side

When a cat experiences dental pain, particularly from conditions like tooth resorption, gingivitis, or abscesses, it often avoids eating kibble or other hard foods. Instead, it may prefer softer food or lick at food rather than chew. You might also notice:

• Chewing only on one side of the mouth to avoid pain on the other side

• Dropping food while eating because it hurts to pick it up or chew

• Eating less overall can lead to weight loss over time.

2. Head Shaking or Flinching When the Mouth Is Touched (Mouth Sensitivity)

A painful mouth often becomes sensitive to even light contact. If your cat:

• Flinches, pulls away, or becomes aggressive when you try to touch its face or mouth area,

• Shakes its head frequently,

• Paws at the mouth or rubs its face on furniture,it may be reacting to sharp, throbbing pain in the teeth or gums. These behaviors could also indicate a dental abscess or a foreign object lodged in the mouth.

3. Hiding More, Becoming Irritable, or Neglecting Grooming

Cats in pain often change their general demeanor. Dental discomfort can lead to:

• Hiding or withdrawing from family members, particularly if the cat is normally sociable.

• Increased irritability or aggression, especially when approached or handled near the mouth.

• Poor grooming habits result in a messy or greasy coat. Pain can make it uncomfortable to contort their bodies for grooming, especially around the face and chest.

When to See a Veterinarian

If your cat shows any of the above signs, it's important to schedule a veterinary exam. Dental disease is extremely common in cats—over 70% have signs by age 3—and it often worsens without treatment. A vet can perform an oral examination, possibly under sedation, and take dental X-rays to check below the gum line.

Common Causes of Dental Pain in Cats

Several dental conditions can cause significant discomfort in cats. Understanding these can help you catch problems early and seek appropriate treatment.

1. Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)

This is one of the most common dental issues in cats. It starts with plaque buildup, which hardens into tartar and leads to inflammation and infection of the gums.

• Signs: Red, swollen gums, bad breath, difficulty eating.

• Progression: If untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and infection that may spread to the jaw or bloodstream.

2. Tooth Resorption

A painful and surprisingly common condition affecting up to 70% of adult cats. It occurs when a cat’s body begins breaking down and absorbing the tooth structure, starting from the root or crown.

• Signs: Avoiding food, drooling, and pain when chewing.

• Cause: The exact cause is unknown, but it may involve inflammation or immune responses.

3. Stomatitis or Gingivitis

These are inflammatory conditions of the mouth:

• Gingivitis affects the gums.

• Stomatitis is more severe and involves widespread inflammation of the entire mouth lining.

• Often immune-mediated, these conditions can cause extreme pain

• Signs: Red, ulcerated mouth tissue, drooling, refusal to eat, extreme sensitivity to touch.

4. Broken or Abscessed Teeth

Teeth can break from trauma, chewing on hard objects, or underlying decay. When the pulp is exposed or bacteria invade, an abscess can form.

• Signs: Swelling on the face or jaw, pawing at the mouth, sudden change in eating habits.

• Urgency: These conditions are very painful and often require extraction or other dental procedures.

What to Feed a Cat With Tooth Pain

When a cat is suffering from dental pain, eating can become difficult and uncomfortable. Adjusting their diet can help them get the nutrition they need while reducing discomfort.

• Offer soft, wet food or warmed pate-style food that’s easier to chew.

• Avoid crunchy kibble, which can hurt sensitive teeth and gums.

• If recommended by your veterinarian, consider prescription dental diets designed for oral health.

Home Remedy Options for Cat Tooth Pain

While home remedies may provide temporary relief, they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult your vet before trying any home treatments.

• Use cat-safe oral rinses or gels (only with veterinary approval) to help reduce bacteria and soothe gums.

• Consider anti-inflammatory supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids, which may support gum health over time.

• Keep the area clean and avoid handling the mouth too much to prevent further irritation.

How to Treat Dental Disease in Cats

Once dental disease is diagnosed, proper treatment is essential to relieve pain and prevent further damage.

• Professional dental cleaning under anaesthesia: Removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line.

• Tooth extraction: In severe cases, diseased teeth may need to be removed to eliminate pain and infection.

• Long-term care: Maintain oral health with dental diets, chews, and vet-approved oral rinses to slow recurrence.

How to Prevent Dental Issues in Cats

Dental disease in cats is extremely common but largely preventable with regular care. By building good habits early and staying consistent, you can help your cat maintain a healthy mouth and avoid painful, costly dental problems down the road.

• Brush Your Cat’s Teeth Regularly: Brushing is the gold standard in feline dental care—it directly removes plaque before it hardens into tartar.

• Use cat-safe toothpaste only: Human toothpaste contains ingredients like fluoride and xylitol, which are toxic to cats. Look for an enzymatic toothpaste formulated for pets, which helps break down plaque.

• Choose the right toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled cat toothbrush or a finger brush for gentle, effective cleaning

• Start slowly and gently: Begin by getting your cat used to having its mouth touched. Progress gradually to brushing a few teeth at a time. Positive reinforcement, like treats and praise, can help.

• Aim for daily brushing, but even a few times a week is beneficial.

• Offer Dental Treats and Chews: Specially formulated dental treats and chews can help reduce plaque buildup mechanically or chemically.

• Look for VOHC-approved products: The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) certifies products that meet standards for effectiveness in controlling plaque and tartar.

• Choose appropriately sized treats: They should require some chewing to be effective. Some dry kibble diets are also formulated for dental health with larger, crunchier pieces.

• Use in moderation: Dental treats are helpful but should not replace brushing or professional care. They’re best as part of a multi-pronged dental care plan.

• Schedule Annual Veterinary Dental Check-Ups: Professional dental exams and cleanings are essential, even if your cat seems fine.

• Take on early tooth exams: Vets can detect early signs of dental disease that are invisible at home, like gum recession, tooth resorption, or infections below the gum line.

• Dental cleanings under anesthesia: These allow for a thorough cleaning and dental x-rays, which are the only way to evaluate roots and jaw bone health.

• Senior cats may need more frequent checks, especially if they have pre-existing dental issues or chronic conditions.

Conclusion

Dental pain is far more common in cats than many owners realise, often going unnoticed because cats are experts at hiding discomfort. Left untreated, dental issues can lead to severe pain, infections, and even impact overall health. Early detection of signs like bad breath, drooling, or reluctance to eat, followed by prompt veterinary care, can prevent serious problems and improve your cat’s quality of life. A combination of regular check-ups, good at-home dental care, and timely treatment ensures a happier, healthier cat. Always consult your veterinarian for the best advice on treating and preventing dental disease in your feline friend.

FAQs

How do I know if my cat needs a tooth pulled?

If your cat has severe dental disease, broken teeth, or advanced tooth resorption, your vet may recommend extraction. Signs include pain, drooling, bad breath, and difficulty eating.

Can cats live with bad teeth?

Cats can survive with bad teeth, but it causes significant pain, infections, and health problems. Treating dental issues promptly improves their quality of life and overall health.

Are dental problems in cats painful?

Yes, dental problems are very painful for cats, even if they don’t show obvious signs. Infections, resorption, and gum disease can make eating and grooming difficult and uncomfortable.

How often should I brush my cat’s teeth?

Ideally, you should brush your cat’s teeth daily using cat-safe toothpaste. Even brushing several times a week can help prevent plaque and keep their mouth healthier.

Is dry food better for a cat's dental health?

Dry cat food may help reduce tartar slightly compared to wet food, but it’s not a substitute for proper dental care. Dental diets and regular brushing are much more effective.