Cats Dental Health: What You Should Know

Author: K. Marie Alto by K Marie Alto Updated April 12, 2025 3 min read

In the most recent years, my vet would mention to me that my Moo had a lot of tartar on his teeth and that cleaning was recommended.

I asked the approximate cost and then asked if it was something that could wait, to which I was told yes. I didn’t like the idea of sedating my teenager so if it wasn’t urgent I figured I wasn’t doing any harm by waiting.

This post is part of a three-post series where I discuss Moo's terrible teeth and the day my cat had a dental surgery.

My Wake-up Call

It wasn’t until I moved and switched vets that the state of my boy’s teeth became clear. My new vet didn’t do any sugar-coating (pun intended). I learned Moo’s teeth were rotten and spreading bacteria throughout his body.

Long story short he ended up needing all of his remaining teeth pulled except for the 4 little baby ones in the front on the top and bottom, which he was able to keep for grooming.

5 Things You May Not Know About Your Fur Baby’s Dental Health

Here are my top 5 takeaways from this experience:

Bad breath isn’t normal. Just like in humans, tartar is causing that rotten smell and isn’t going to improve without brushing and regular cleaning.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have periodontal disease by the age of 3!
Most dental disease is hidden below the gums, so you can’t even see it.
Poor dental health can lead to other major health issues like heart and kidney disease!
Regular cleanings can prevent future costly extractions and when done by an experienced vet can be performed very safely.

What Should I Do Now?

At your next annual vet check, ask what you can do to improve your baby’s teeth and in turn improve their overall health.

Consider brushing your fur baby’s teeth (at least 3 times a week), but make sure you use cat/dog safe toothpaste and switch your treats to Greenies Dental Treats to help get rid of plaque between brushings (my girls love these!).

Tell me, do your brush your fur baby’s teeth? Do you bring your baby in for regular cleanings?

Read More Cat Care Guides

One more thing, if you are feeling like getting a little special something for your fur baby that is unique, made right here in the USA, 100% pup and cat safe, USDA certified organic and brought to you by a US company, check out Toe Beans online pet supplies store!

K Marie Alto

K. Marie is an animal lover, wife, pet momma, blogger, writer, and co-founder of Toe Beans^®, the premier American manufacturer of direct-to-pet-parent dog and cat wellness supplies. A company that creates certifiably better pet products proudly made in the USA.

By redefining what conscious pet households should expect from pet products — from how, where, and by whom they are made to the materials used — Toe Beans® is becoming the #1 trusted source for health-conscious pet parents seeking ingredient transparency, healthier choices, true American craftsmanship, and the highest standards for the furry family members they love most.

She loves sharing her journey through social media — follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Read Marie’s full bio here.

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