Educational Articles
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Bad breath (halitosis) is caused by bacteria, plaque, tartar, decomposing food particles, or death of tissue. Treatment of halitosis in cats involves eliminating the cause(s). The teeth need to be thoroughly cleaned and polished under general anesthesia. Teeth affected by advanced periodontal disease or tooth resorption need to be extracted. Reducing the accumulation of plaque, tartar, and resulting halitosis can be achieved by using VOHC-accepted products.
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Cats have four types of teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Skeletal malocclusion results when an abnormal jaw length creates a malalignment of the teeth. Dental malocclusion occurs when the upper and lower jaw lengths are considered normal but one or more teeth are out of normal alignment. This article explains the common forms of skeletal and dental malocclusion seen in cats.
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There are many reasons why your cat might need oral surgery, including dental disease and oral tumors. Your veterinarian may refer your cat to a board-certified dentist, surgeon, or oncologist. Prior to your cat's surgery, blood tests will be performed to prepare an anesthetic protocol suitable for your cat. Most cats recover with minimal discomfort and will need to eat soft food until healing is complete.
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There are many causes of oral swellings, including local trauma, infection, fluid accumulation and tumors. If you find an oral swelling in your cat's mouth, book an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will perform diagnostic tests such as intraoral X-rays, blood tests, and tissue sampling. Treatment and prognosis depend on the cause.
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Fibrosarcomas are the second most common oral tumor in cats and arise from the fibrous and connective tissues of the oral cavity. These tumors are very invasive locally and are often difficult to manage, Diagnosis is based on biopsy and treatment involves surgery and occasionally radiation or chemotherapy. Palliative care with pain relief and antibiotics are essential to improve quality of life.
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The most common oral tumor seen in cats is squamous cell carcinoma; the second most common is fibrosarcoma. This handout discusses the clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of oral tumors in cats.
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Occasionally, cats’ teeth do not erupt in the right location, resulting in pain and poor function. Treatment options include orthodontic appliances to move the teeth, extraction, or crown amputation with restoration. Many veterinarians are comfortable delivering orthodontic care for cats. Your veterinarian may seek the advice of a board-certified veterinary dental specialist for advice or referral.
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A persistent tooth is a deciduous (baby) tooth that is still present when the permanent tooth erupts. When this happens, the baby tooth occupies the place in the mouth that is meant for the permanent tooth, forcing the permanent tooth to erupt at an abnormal angle or in an abnormal position. The result is crowding or malposition of the tooth, causing an abnormal bite (malocclusion). Early extraction is advised.
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Plaque forms on teeth shortly after eating and within 24 hours begins to harden, eventually turning into tartar. Tartar serves as a place for bacteria to grow, leading to gingivitis. As gingivitis worsens, periodontal disease develops, which includes inflammation, pain, and tooth loss. Prevention of plaque and tartar build-up is key. Use VOHC-accepted food and/or water additives, wipe or brush your cat's teeth daily, and have your veterinarian perform regular dental cleanings.
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The American Animal Hospital Association and American Veterinary Medical Association have established guidelines to standardize preventive health care for cats, helping them to live longer, healthier lives. This handout provides an overview of the recommendations within these guidelines and why they are so important.
