Recognizing the signs of a toothache in cats is crucial for every pet owner. Cats are experts at hiding pain, which makes dental issues easy to overlook. Yet, dental disease is one of the most common health problems in felines. Toothaches in cats often result from conditions like periodontal disease, fractured teeth, resorptive lesions, or oral infections. Knowing the subtle signs of a toothache in cats helps you seek early treatment and keep your cat healthy and happy.
Why Do Cats Get Toothaches?
Cats can develop many of the same dental problems humans face. Common causes of a toothache in cats include:
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Periodontal disease, which is inflammation and infection of the gums and bone
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Tooth resorption, a painful condition where the tooth breaks down from the inside
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Fractured or broken teeth
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Oral tumors or abscesses
These conditions cause significant pain and can impact your cat’s ability to eat, groom, and feel comfortable.
Common Signs of a Toothache in Cats
Because cats rarely show obvious pain, it’s essential to look for subtle changes in behavior and physical health. Here are the most important signs of a toothache in cats:
1. Drooling or Salivating
Excessive drooling, especially if it’s tinged with blood, can indicate oral pain. Some cats may paw at their mouth or rub their face on furniture to relieve discomfort.
2. Bad Breath (Halitosis)
While mild bad breath isn’t always a concern, foul-smelling breath is often a sign of infection or advanced dental disease in cats.
3. Difficulty Eating or Chewing on One Side
If your cat drops food, chews only on one side, or loses interest in dry kibble, dental pain may be the cause. Cats might switch to softer foods or avoid eating altogether.
4. Behavioral Changes
A normally friendly cat becoming irritable, withdrawn, or hiding more often could be suffering from a toothache. Dental pain affects mood, sleep, and how your cat interacts with you.
5. Weight Loss or Poor Coat Condition
Cats in pain may eat less, leading to weight loss. They may also neglect grooming, resulting in a dull, matted, or greasy coat.
6. Swelling or Visible Changes
Swelling along the jawline, under the eyes, or on the face can indicate a tooth root abscess or oral infection. In some cases, you might see pus or discharge around the mouth.
Don’t Wait for Obvious Signs of a Toothache in Cats
By the time cats show clear signs of a toothache, dental disease is often advanced. That’s why routine veterinary dental exams and dental X-rays under anesthesia are so important. These procedures detect problems that can’t be seen during a simple oral exam.
At Carefree Dentistry & Oral Surgery for Animals, our veterinary team uses advanced imaging, including digital dental radiographs and cone beam CT, to diagnose hidden dental problems in cats early—before they become severe or life-threatening.
For more guidance on feline dental care, visit the American Veterinary Medical Association’s dental health resources for trusted information.
Final Thoughts on Recognizing Signs of a Toothache in Cats
If your cat is showing signs of a toothache, don’t delay care. Early intervention can prevent serious health complications and restore your cat’s comfort and quality of life.
Visit Carefree Dentistry & Oral Surgery for Animals today to schedule a dental consultation and help keep your cat’s smile healthy.