What Happens If a Cat’s Tooth Infection Is Left Untreated?
Dental health is crucial to overall feline well-being, yet it's often overlooked. A tooth infection or tooth abscess in cats typically results from a fractured or dead tooth that allows bacteria to infect the root and surrounding tissues. If left untreated, the outcomes can be severe, even life-threatening.
Understanding Cat Tooth Infections
Tooth abscesses in cats are generally caused by bacteria entering through broken enamel or advanced periodontal disease. Cats have notably thin enamel, making them more susceptible to cracked or fractured teeth, which can expose the pulp and allow bacterial infiltration.
The most affected teeth include:
- Canine (fang) teeth
- Upper premolars
- Molars
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Tooth fractures from trauma or chewing hard objects
- Severe gum disease (periodontitis)
- Tooth resorption, a common feline dental issue
- Poor oral hygiene
Symptoms of Untreated Tooth Abscesses
Cats are masters at hiding pain, so symptoms can be subtle. However, signs that often emerge include:
- Facial swelling under the eyes or jawline
- Odorous breath (halitosis)
- Drooling, sometimes tinged with blood
- Reluctance to eat or favoring soft foods
- Weight loss due to reduced eating
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
- Discharge or pus from the mouth or face
- Lethargy and poor grooming
Severely abscessed teeth might cause swelling noticeable below the eye or burst externally, leading to pus drainage through the skin.
Progressive Complications if Left Untreated
An untreated tooth infection can have significant consequences on your cat’s health:
- Severe pain and distress impacting the quality of life
- Bone destruction around the infected tooth
- Formation of oral fistulas—abnormal drainage tracts
- Chronic infections spreading through the bloodstream
- Sepsis—a life-threatening systemic infection
- Potential damage to internal organs like kidneys and heart
These conditions not only induce suffering but also complicate treatment and recovery timelines. Sepsis in particular can be fatal if not treated promptly with aggressive veterinary care.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Veterinarians diagnose tooth infections using a combination of:
- Physical exams—looking for swelling, bad breath, and discolored or fractured teeth
- Dental X-rays under anesthesia—essential for viewing beneath the gumline
- Tissue sampling in some cases to confirm infection
Tooth extraction is the most common treatment, particularly when bone destruction is involved. In some cases, root canal therapy may be considered to preserve the tooth, though this is less common.
Post-Treatment Care
- Pain management using prescribed medications
- Antibiotics to clear up residual infection
- Soft food diet for at least two weeks
- Avoidance of hard kibble, toys, or treats
- Follow-up exams to ensure proper healing
Most cats recover well after proper treatment, with quality of life significantly improving.
Prevention Strategies
Good dental hygiene can dramatically reduce the risk of tooth infections. Recommendations include:
- Annual veterinary dental checkups with professional cleanings under anesthesia
- Home brushing routines to prevent plaque buildup
- Dental-friendly food and treats
- Monitoring for early signs like changes in eating or grooming behavior
When to Seek Emergency Care
Contact a veterinarian immediately if your cat shows:
- Swelling that worsens or breaks open
- Fever, vomiting, or extreme lethargy
- Difficulty breathing or signs of systemic illness
Conclusion
A tooth infection in cats is a serious condition that cannot heal without professional intervention. If untreated, it can cause unbearable pain, systemic disease, and even death. Early detection and prompt veterinary treatment are essential to ensure your cat remains healthy and pain-free.
