How to Recognize a Mouth Infection in Your Cat
Cats are known for masking their discomfort, making it difficult for pet owners to detect health issues such as mouth infections. However, dental infections, particularly tooth abscesses, are serious conditions that require veterinary attention. A cat tooth abscess is an inflammatory reaction resulting from a bacterial infection, usually due to a damaged or dead tooth. Recognizing the signs early can help prevent complications and ensure your cat gets proper care.
Key Signs of a Mouth Infection in Cats
- Facial swelling – Often noticed under the eye, along the jawline, or around the cheek or chin.
- Change in eating habits – Dropping food, refusing kibble, or chewing on one side of the mouth.
- Bad breath – A foul or rotten odor coming from the mouth.
- Drooling – Excessive or blood-tinged drool is a common symptom.
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face – Indicates oral discomfort.
- Bleeding or discharge – Blood or pus may be seen around the gums or face.
- Decreased appetite – Your cat may lose interest in food or show signs of weight loss.
- Lethargy – Less active, reduced grooming, or an unkempt coat.
Why Are Cats Prone to Tooth Abscesses?
Cats have relatively thin enamel, making their teeth susceptible to fractures. Broken or chipped teeth expose the inner pulp and allow bacteria to enter, resulting in infection. Major causes include:
- Periodontal disease – Severe gum disease lets bacteria reach the tooth root.
- Chewing hard objects – This can damage or break teeth.
- Tooth resorption – A painful condition where tooth structure deteriorates from below the gumline.
Diagnosis of a Tooth Abscess
Diagnosing a mouth infection or tooth abscess in cats typically involves:
- Physical examination of the oral cavity
- Identification of fractured or discolored teeth
- Assessment of swelling, pus, or discharge
- Dental X-rays under anesthesia – Intraoral radiographs reveal issues below the gumline like root infections or bone loss
On occasion, tissue samples may be analyzed to confirm the infection and plan treatment.
Treatment Options
Treatment for a tooth abscess can’t be done at home. The most common and effective method is:
- Tooth extraction under anesthesia to remove the source of infection
- Pain medication to relieve discomfort
- Antibiotics to fight infection
- Local nerve blocks and stitches to promote healing
In some cases, root canal therapy may be considered to preserve a tooth, but this is less common if there is extensive damage or bone loss.
Post-Treatment Care
Post-operative care is essential for recovery. Owners should:
- Feed a soft diet for about two weeks
- Avoid hard food, treats, or chew toys
- Monitor for swelling, discharge, or behavioral changes
Most cats recover fully and show a noticeable improvement in comfort and behavior.
Preventing Mouth Infections
Preventive dental care includes:
- Annual veterinary dental exams and professional cleanings
- At-home tooth brushing to remove plaque before it hardens
- Avoiding hard toys or objects that may cause fractures
- Watching for early signs of oral discomfort or unusual behavior
- Using dental diets or treats formulated to reduce plaque
When to See a Veterinarian
Because cats are experts at hiding pain, any changes in eating habits, grooming, or facial appearance should prompt a visit to the vet. Some symptoms require immediate care:
- Severe swelling
- Difficulty breathing or signs of systemic illness like fever, vomiting, or extreme lethargy
A tooth abscess will not heal without treatment. Home care may only mask symptoms temporarily. Prompt veterinary intervention ensures that the infected or dead tooth is appropriately managed, improving your cat’s overall health and quality of life.
