My cat has bad breath, won’t eat. Feline dental problem signs to look out for, what to do

Is your cat having dental problems? Here’s how to tell – from not eating as much as usual to drooling a lot – and what to do about it

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Check your cat’s teeth for signs of trouble. Are teeth missing or damaged? Do the gums appear red or inflamed? Is there tartar? If you notice any of these issues, a visit to the vet is essential. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 4:15pm, 4 Mar 2025Updated: 8:46am, 5 Mar 2025

Is your cat restless, eating less or withdrawing from cuddles? It might not just be a bad mood – dental problems could be the cause.

Nearly 80 per cent of cats over three years old experience dental issues, often going unnoticed until a vet check-up, according to veterinarian Melanie Schwarze in Leipzig, Germany.

Symptoms like bad breath, excessive drooling, or weight loss could indicate trouble, Schwarze says in a recent pet industry newsletter.

One of the most common conditions is what is known as feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions, or FORL, which is a painful disease in which teeth dissolve from the root, Schwarze says.

This condition is typically diagnosed through X-rays and, in most cases, the affected teeth must be extracted. Nearly one in three cats suffer from it, with the risk increasing to almost one in two for senior cats.

To safeguard your cat’s teeth, introduce the pet to brushing with a finger brush or a special pet toothbrush and feline-safe toothpaste. Photo: Shutterstock

Prevention is key. Chewing dry food can naturally reduce plaque. You can also introduce your cat to brushing with a finger brush or a special pet toothbrush and feline-safe toothpaste.