A–Z topic · T
Tooth decay in cats
Quick answer
Dental disease affects most UK cats over age three. **Brush teeth daily** if your cat accepts it, feed a vet-approved dental diet if recommended, and book regular oral checks. Bad breath, drooling or dropping food warrants a vet examination — cats rarely show obvious mouth pain.
Key takeaways
- Yes, with patience. Use a cat-specific toothbrush and enzymatic cat toothpaste. Start by letting your cat lick paste from your finger, then gradually introduce the brush for a few seconds daily.
- Cats instinctively mask illness. Many continue eating soft food while suffering from painful teeth or gums. Bad breath, drooling, or chattering jaws may be the only obvious signs at home.
- A common UK cat condition where tooth structure breaks down at or below the gumline. Affected teeth are painful and usually need extraction under anaesthesia — home care cannot reverse resorption.
The full guide
Causes, symptoms, treatment options and when to call your vet — in the complete plain-English guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you brush a cat's teeth?
- Yes, with patience. Use a cat-specific toothbrush and enzymatic cat toothpaste. Start by letting your cat lick paste from your finger, then gradually introduce the brush for a few seconds daily.
- Why do cats hide dental pain?
- Cats instinctively mask illness. Many continue eating soft food while suffering from painful teeth or gums. Bad breath, drooling, or chattering jaws may be the only obvious signs at home.
- What is feline tooth resorption?
- A common UK cat condition where tooth structure breaks down at or below the gumline. Affected teeth are painful and usually need extraction under anaesthesia — home care cannot reverse resorption.