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Introduction
Dental
disease is the most common disease among pets.
In fact, the majority of cats aged over five years have some form
of dental disease, ranging from mild gingivitis to painful tooth abscesses
and resorptive lesions (the feline version of a “cavity”).
Dental disorders are painful, and can lead to other illnesses such
as liver disease, kidney infections, and heart damage.
Unfortunately, dental problems can go unnoticed by pet owners.
If a dental problem becomes pronounced, your cat’s ability to eat
is hindered and eating may become painful.
Your
Primary Concern for Your Cat’s Health
A
number of serious problems can develop that can jeopardize your cat’s
health and happiness. Plaque,
the bacteria-laden film that coats your cat’s teeth, exudes toxic waste
products and enzymes that break down gum tissue.
This can lead to periodontal disease – the inflammation of the
tissues that surround the teeth. Another common problem is osteoclastic resorptive lesions.
The surface of the tooth becomes eroded, usually at the junction
between the gum and the tooth. They
are similar to “cavities” in people, although these erosions are
technically not cavities since they’re not caused by bacteria.
Initially, these erosions are not painful, however, as they get
deeper, the nerve inside the tooth may become affected, causing
significant pain. In advanced
cases, the cat may stop eating and drinking.
Extraction is often necessary.
Endangering
Internal Organs
Dental
disease in cats is cause for heightened concern due to the potential
damage to internal organs that may develop.
The kidneys are particularly susceptible.
Bacteria and toxins contained in dental tartar can shower the
kidneys. This is worrisome, as feline kidneys are subject to a number
of age-related changes which can result in impaired kidney function or
failure. Additional stress on
a cat’s kidneys can be caused by the bacteria and toxins released into
the bloodstream resulting from plaque buildup.
This can accelerate kidney deterioration and shorten your cat’s
lifespan.
 
The
Extra Protection
You
can safeguard your cat’s health by providing for regular dental
prophylaxis. High-quality
professional dental cleaning equipment and techniques are used, similar to
your own dentist. Thorough
feline dental prophylaxis requires that your cat be anesthetized.
At Manhattan Cat Specialists, we perform blood tests to make
certain that all body organs are functioning properly so that your cat can
be anesthetized safely. An
EKG machine and a pulse oximeter are hooked up to your cat to monitor
heart and lung function during the dental procedure.
Dental prophylaxis involves examining each tooth, scaling to remove
all plaque and tartar, polishing and smoothing the surface of the tooth to
reduce future plaque buildup, and if necessary, extraction of diseased
teeth. Your cat also receives
fluoride treatment, pain medication during the procedure, antibiotics, and
pain medication to be given at home.
Benefits
Can Be Dramatic
Providing
proper dental care for your cat can protect him from pain and serious
illness. Your cat will have
fresh breath, be more comfortable eating, and enjoy his meals more.
He will have the opportunity to enjoy better health and live a long
and happier life.
Brushing Your Cat's Teeth -
Video
Updated
2/9/06
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