Healthy Teeth, Happier Cats

Dental disease is one of the most common — and most underdiagnosed — health problems we see in cats. By age three, the majority of cats show some signs of dental disease, and left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain, tooth loss, difficulty eating, and complications affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys.

That’s why we believe dental care isn’t a luxury — it’s a foundational part of keeping your cat healthy, comfortable, and thriving for years to come.

Please note: all surgical and dental procedures are performed next door at our sister hospital, Rialto Animal Hospital. Our team coordinates every step so your cat’s care remains seamless — from consultation and pre-op planning here at Rialto Cat Hospital, through the procedure at RAH, and back to us for recovery and follow-up.

Why Bad Breath Isn’t “Just Bad Breath” for Cats

That familiar breath from your cat’s yawn? It’s usually a sign of something more — infection and inflammation beneath the gumline that can progress quickly if left alone. The early stages of dental disease are often subtle and easy to miss because cats are remarkably good at hiding mouth pain. They keep eating, keep grooming, and keep purring — even when their teeth are seriously bothering them.

A professional dental exam and cleaning is the best way to catch problems early and prevent painful, expensive issues later.

What’s Involved in a Professional Cat Dental Cleaning

Cat dental cleanings are performed under general anesthesia, which allows us to thoroughly clean every tooth, take full-mouth dental X-rays, evaluate areas beneath the gumline (where about 80% of dental disease lives), and address any problems we find without causing your cat stress or discomfort.

Here’s what your cat’s dental procedure looks like:

  • Pre-anesthetic exam by one of our veterinarians on the morning of the procedure
  • IV catheter placement and fluid support throughout the procedure
  • Carefully monitored, balanced anesthesia with a trained technician at your cat’s side from start to finish
  • Continuous monitoring of heart rate, respiration, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and temperature
  • Full-mouth dental X-rays to evaluate roots, bone, and tissues invisible to the eye
  • Thorough scaling and polishing of every tooth, above and below the gumline
  • Oral surgery, if needed — performed during the same procedure to avoid additional anesthesia
  • Laser therapy on gum tissue to support healing and reduce inflammation
  • Pain management before, during, and after the procedure

Most cats go home the same day — usually between 5:00 and 7:00 PM — with detailed home care instructions and any medications they need.

Many owners are surprised to discover just how much their cat’s personality changes once oral pain is addressed — more playful, more affectionate, more interested in eating. It’s one of the most rewarding aspects of feline dental care.

Preparing for Your Cat’s Dental Procedure

A few things to know before your cat’s appointment:

  • Fast your cat the night before (no food after dinner — water is okay until morning)
  • Drop off between 7:00 and 7:30 AM at Rialto Animal Hospital next door (unless other arrangements have been discussed)
  • Pre-anesthetic bloodwork is strongly recommended to ensure your cat is in optimal health for anesthesia
  • Stay reachable by phone — we’ll call you with findings and to discuss any recommended adjustments to the treatment plan

Dental procedures are done on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Home Dental Care That Actually Works

Between professional cleanings, daily home care makes a meaningful difference in your cat’s oral health. We recommend:

  • Daily brushing with a cat-specific toothbrush and pet toothpaste (never use human toothpaste — fluoride can be toxic to cats)
  • Dental treats designed to help reduce plaque and tartar
  • Prescription dental diets for cats — when used as recommended by our team
  • Water additives and oral gels as daily alternatives when brushing isn’t possible

The more consistent you are at home, the less work we have to do during professional cleanings — and the more comfortable your cat stays in between. That said: plenty of cats are firmly opposed to having their teeth brushed, and we get it. Any at-home dental care routine is better than none, and we’re happy to help you find one that works for both of you.

Common Feline Dental Conditions

Cats face some dental challenges that dogs don’t, and it’s worth knowing what we look for during every exam:

  • Tooth resorption — a painful condition where the tooth structure gradually breaks down from the inside out. It affects up to 60% of cats and often requires the extraction of affected teeth
  • Periodontal disease — the same infection and inflammation of the gums and supporting structures we see in dogs, but often more advanced by the time it’s noticed in cats
  • Stomatitis — a severe, painful inflammation of the mouth that requires ongoing management and sometimes extraction of multiple teeth
  • Fractured teeth — most often canines and premolars; can expose the tooth’s nerve and cause significant pain

Catching these early — through regular wellness exams and professional cleanings — makes a real difference in your cat’s comfort and long-term oral health.

Schedule Your Cat’s Dental Exam

Not sure if your cat is due for a dental cleaning? We can take a look at their next wellness exam and let you know what we recommend. Call us at (909) 546-3321 or request an appointment online.