There may be times when your cat has experienced dental damage or decay that is beyond repair and needs to be addressed immediately. Here, our La Pine vets discuss the reasons that your cat may need a tooth removed and what you can expect if they require tooth extraction surgery.
Cat Dental Extractions
A cat tooth extraction is when a veterinarian surgically removes a tooth. Your cat will be put under general anesthesia during the extraction procedure. This keeps them comfortable, prevents them from struggling, and allows our veterinary team to perform the extraction safely.
When Are Cat Tooth Extractions Necessary?
Most cats will require tooth extraction due to decay or advanced gum disease caused by poor oral hygiene. When a tooth is irreparably damaged, it must be extracted to avoid infection and pain caused by the decayed tooth.
After your cat has its diseased tooth or teeth removed, you should speak to your vet about the proper home care for your cat to prevent their other teeth from becoming similarly decayed. You should also be sure to bring your cat in for regular professional dental cleanings and examinations. Good dental care is essential to your kitty's oral and overall health.
Besides the common cause of gum disease and decay, your cat may also need a tooth removed for the following reasons:
- Fractured or broken teeth - Broken teeth can lead to painful abscesses and infection.
- Deciduous teeth - Baby teeth that do not fall out on their own may need to be removed.
- Oral tumors - The treatment of tumors may involve the extraction of nearby teeth.
- Orthodontic abnormalities - Just like humans, sometimes cats have teeth where they don't belong.
Recovery After Cat Tooth Extractions
Teeth all are held into our mouths by roots. In cats, as many as three roots can be holding an individual tooth. To fully extract a tooth, all roots must be removed.
During your cat's dental surgery, it will be under the effects of anesthesia. When they wake up they may be groggy or lethargic for the remainder of the day - this is completely normal.
Because the recovery time for this procedure is relatively short, you should be able to take your pet home the same day. If your pet prefers hard kibble, soften it in warm water before serving it for the first few days.
Concerning Symptoms To Watch For After Tooth Extraction Surgery
While cats typically heal well after tooth extraction surgery, there may be occasional instances of complications during the recovery process. Some of the symptoms to watch out for are:
- A foul odor coming from your cat’s mouth
- A slight swelling on the lower or upper jawline, or under the eye area; the eye may also seem to bulge or protrude from your cat’s head
- Refusal of food
- Drainage from the nose or mouth
- General sluggishness
- Drooling
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing their face on the ground
- Dropping food while eating
- Your cat not eating or sleeping after the surgery
You may also notice traces of blood in your cat's saliva. While this is normal, there should not be any significant bleeding. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.