Understanding Malocclusion: The Silent Killer of Cats
Cats may seem resilient and stoic, but beneath their composed exterior can lie hidden health issues that threaten their quality of life. One such issue is
malocclusion, a silent yet potentially devastating dental disorder that often goes unnoticed until significant damage has occurred.
What Is Malocclusion in Cats?
Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of a cat's teeth or jaws, resulting in an
abnormal bite. Normally, cats possess 30 permanent teeth after shedding their 26 deciduous (baby) teeth within the first six months of life. A healthy dental structure allows cats to eat comfortably, maintain oral hygiene, and avoid injuries to the mouth tissues.
There are several types of teeth in felines:
- Incisors – Used for grasping food and retracting the tongue within the mouth.
- Canines – Important for tearing food and defense.
- Premolars – Help in cutting food.
- Molars – Mainly used for grinding.
Normal Occlusion vs. Malocclusion
In a normal feline bite, the
upper incisors slightly overlap the lower ones, featuring what is known as a "scissor bite." Furthermore, the
lower canines should ideally rest between the upper third incisor and upper canine.
However, many cats, particularly
brachycephalic breeds like Persians and British Shorthairs, may exhibit variations due to their facial structure.
Types of Malocclusion
Veterinarians categorize malocclusion into four main classes:
- Class I – Dental Malocclusion: Jaws are the correct length, but one or more teeth are misaligned, rotated, or cause trauma.
- Class II – Skeletal Malocclusion (Overbite): The lower jaw is too short, causing the lower incisors or canines to contact soft tissues like the palate, leading to pain and possible infection.
- Class III – Skeletal Malocclusion (Underbite): The lower jaw is extended beyond the upper jaw. Mild forms may be functional, but severe cases can result in trauma.
- Class IV – Asymmetrical Malocclusion: One side of the jaw grows differently or unevenly, leading to midline shifts and open bites.
Other Causes and Risk Factors
Malocclusion can have various origins:
- Hereditary – Passed through genetic lines, especially in certain breeds.
- Developmental – Due to retained baby teeth or improper jaw bone growth.
- Trauma – Physical injury to the head or jaw.
- Disease – Some illnesses may affect dental formation.
Symptoms of Malocclusion in Cats
Because cats are experts at hiding fatigue and discomfort, owners may not notice signs right away. Watch for symptoms such as:
- Visible misalignment of teeth or jaw
- Drooling or bad breath
- Difficulty chewing or reluctance to eat
- Pawing at the face
- Facial swelling
- Behavioral changes due to pain
If untreated, complications may include:
- Soft tissue trauma
- Palatal injuries
- Infections or abscesses
- Oronasal fistulas (abnormal openings between the mouth and nasal cavity)
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Veterinary diagnosis typically includes:
- Physical and oral examination
- Anesthesia for detailed assessment
- Dental X-rays
Depending on the severity, treatment may involve:
- Monitoring – Mild cases may not require intervention if there's no trauma.
- Tooth Extraction – Often done when misaligned teeth cause injury or impede eating.
- Orthodontic Appliances – Braces or similar devices may be used, mainly in young cats.
- Crown Reduction – Reducing the height of problematic teeth to prevent trauma.
- Surgery – Required in extreme cases to realign bones or remove obstructions.
Prevention and Early Intervention
You can minimize the risks by:
- Scheduling regular veterinary checkups
- Providing professional dental cleanings
- Monitoring for retained baby teeth
- Feeding dental health diets
- Using specialized dental toys and chews
If a cat has a familial history of malocclusion, it should ideally not be bred to prevent passing on the trait.
Why It's Called a Silent Killer
Malocclusion often progresses without obvious signs. By the time pain or behavioral issues emerge, significant and sometimes irreversible damage may have occurred. It can impair eating, lead to chronic pain, and even cause systemic infections if bacteria enter the bloodstream through damaged oral tissues.
Takeaway for Pet Owners
Early intervention, routine oral care, and breed-specific awareness are absolutely essential in protecting your feline friend. Malocclusion may be quiet in its onset, but its long-term consequences can be severe. Prioritizing dental health isn't just cosmetic—it's a matter of your cat’s well-being and longevity.
