Cat Dental Extractions: What Pet Parents Need to Know

15 Sep Cat Dental Extractions: What Pet Parents Need to Know

Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in cats, yet many owners don’t realize how serious it can become. From tooth resorption to severe periodontal disease, some feline dental conditions require tooth extractions to relieve pain and prevent infection. At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin (VDSWI), we want to guide cat owners through what extractions involve, why they’re necessary, and how they help your cat stay healthy and happy.

Why Cats Need Dental Extractions

Cats are experts at hiding pain, and dental discomfort is no exception. Common reasons a cat may need a dental extraction include:

1. Tooth resorption – a painful condition where the tooth structure breaks down
2. Severe periodontal disease – infection and inflammation of the gums and supporting structures
3. Fractured teeth – often caused by chewing on hard objects or trauma
4. Persistent oral infections – that do not respond to medications

Left untreated, these conditions can cause chronic pain, difficulty eating, weight loss, and systemic infections that affect the kidneys, heart, and other organs.

What to Expect During a Dental Extraction

Dental extractions in cats are performed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety. At VDSWI, our specialist-level care includes:

1. Comprehensive oral examination – evaluating each tooth individually
2. Full mouth dental radiographs – to detect hidden problems beneath the gumline
3. Advanced anesthetic monitoring – overseen by a trained team to keep your cat safe
4. Pain management – before, during, and after the procedure

Depending on your cat’s condition, the extraction may be simple (removing a tooth that’s fully erupted) or surgical (removing teeth with roots that require careful extraction).

Recovery After Cat Dental Extractions

Most cats recover quickly after dental extractions, especially when pain is properly managed. You can expect:

1. Soft food for a few days to allow healing
2. Medications for pain or infection, if prescribed
3. Follow-up exams to ensure the mouth is healing properly

After recovery, many cats experience dramatic improvements in appetite, behavior, and overall quality of life.

Signs Your Cat May Need a Dental Extraction

If your cat is showing any of these signs, it may be time for a dental evaluation:

1. Bad breath (halitosis)
2. Drooling or pawing at the mouth
3. Difficulty eating or dropping food
4. Swelling around the face or gums
5. Reluctance to groom

Schedule a Dental Consultation

Dental extractions are often the best solution for cats in pain, and early intervention prevents more serious health issues down the road. At VDSWI, our board-certified veterinary dentist and skilled team provide gentle, specialized care tailored to each cat’s needs.

Call us today at 262-622-2537 or request an appointment online to schedule your cat’s dental consultation. Protecting your cat’s oral health is an investment in their comfort, health, and happiness.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (09/15/2025) Photo by Dima Winterson on Unsplash