Broken Teeth in Cats: What Your Next Steps Should Be

Cats are known for their agility, grace, and, of course, their sharp teeth. However, just like humans, cats can experience dental issues, including broken teeth. This situation can be painful and distressing for your feline friend, and it requires prompt attention. In this blog, we’ll guide you through what to do if your cat has a broken tooth and when it’s necessary to seek professional veterinary care at Kenosha Animal Hospital.

Causes of Broken Teeth in Cats

Cats can break their teeth for various reasons, often due to their natural instincts and activities. 

Trauma from Accidents

Trauma can happen during falls, car accidents, or even rough play with other animals. Cats are curious creatures, and sometimes their adventurous spirit can lead to accidents that result in dental injuries.

Chewing on Hard Objects

Cats, especially young ones, tend to chew on various objects, including bones, toys, or even household items like wires. If these objects are too hard, they can easily cause a tooth to fracture. Providing appropriate toys and monitoring your cat’s chewing habits can reduce this risk.

Dental Disease

Periodontal disease and tooth resorption are prevalent in cats and can weaken the teeth, making them more susceptible to breaking. Regular dental check-ups at Kenosha Animal Hospital can help identify and manage these conditions before they lead to more severe problems.

Fights with Other Animals

Cats are territorial by nature, and when they engage in fights with other animals, they can end up with injuries, including broken teeth. It’s important to monitor your cat for any signs of injury after an altercation.

Can You Recognize Broken Teeth in Cats?

There are several symptoms you can look out for: 

• Behavioral Changes: A cat with a broken tooth may become less active or more irritable than usual. They might avoid eating hard food or shy away from toys they usually enjoy. These behavioral changes are often a result of discomfort or pain.
• Drooling and Bad Breath: Excessive drooling or a sudden change in breath odor can indicate dental issues, including a broken tooth. If you notice these symptoms, check your cat’s mouth for visible signs of injury.
• Pawing at the Mouth: Cats experiencing dental pain may frequently paw at their mouth or face. This is a clear indication that something is wrong and warrants a closer inspection.
• Visible Damage: In some cases, you may be able to see the broken tooth or notice blood around your cat’s gums. If the fracture is severe, the tooth may be visibly cracked or missing a piece.

How to Respond if Your Cat Has a Broken Tooth

If you suspect your cat has a broken tooth, here’s what you can do immediately.

Inspect Your Cat’s Mouth Carefully

Gently check your cat’s mouth to assess the extent of the damage. Be cautious, as your cat may be in pain and could react defensively. Look for signs of a fractured tooth, bleeding, or swelling.

Avoid Home Remedies

It’s natural to want to alleviate your cat’s pain, but avoid giving any over-the-counter medications or attempting home treatments. Some substances that are safe for humans can be harmful to cats. The best course of action is to seek professional veterinary care.

Contact Kenosha Animal Hospital

Call Kenosha Animal Hospital at (262) 658-3533 to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Broken teeth can lead to further complications, such as infections or abscesses, if not treated promptly.

How Kenosha Animal Hospital Can Help

When you bring your cat to Kenosha Animal Hospital, our team will conduct a thorough examination to determine the best course of action.

Initial Examination and Diagnostic Tests

Your veterinarian will start with a visual inspection of your cat’s mouth to assess the damage. If necessary, they may recommend dental X-rays to get a clearer picture of the tooth’s condition and check for any underlying issues.

Treating Broken Teeth in Cats

The treatment for a broken tooth in cats varies depending on the severity of the fracture. In some cases, a simple smoothing of the tooth’s sharp edges may suffice. However, if the pulp is exposed or the tooth is severely damaged, extraction or root canal therapy may be necessary.

Post-Treatment Care

After the procedure, your cat may require a soft food diet for a few days and pain management to ensure a smooth recovery. Your veterinarian will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your cat at home during the healing process.

Tips for Preventing Broken Teeth in Cats

While accidents can happen, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of broken teeth in your cat.

• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine dental exams at Kenosha Animal Hospital help catch potential dental issues before they escalate. These check-ups can help identify weakened teeth or signs of periodontal disease that could lead to fractures.
• Provide Appropriate Chew Toys: Offering your cat safe and suitable toys to chew on can prevent them from damaging their teeth on harder objects. Look for toys specifically designed for cats, which are less likely to cause harm.
• Monitor Your Cat’s Behavior: Keep an eye on your cat’s activities, especially if they are prone to chewing on non-food items or getting into fights with other animals. Early intervention can prevent many dental injuries.

Managing Your Cat’s Pain After a Broken Tooth

Pain management is an important part of your cat’s recovery from a broken tooth. Here are some tips for managing their discomfort that will help them heal more comfortably.

• Veterinary-Approved Pain Relief: Your veterinarian may prescribe pain medication to help manage your cat’s discomfort. Follow the dosage instructions carefully and monitor your cat for any side effects.
• Dietary Adjustments: Softening your cat’s food or offering a wet food diet can make eating less painful while their mouth heals. This temporary change can significantly improve their comfort during recovery.
• Follow-Up Visits: After the initial treatment, follow-up visits help ensure that your cat’s mouth is healing properly. Your veterinarian will check for signs of infection and confirm that the tooth extraction or repair has been successful.

If your cat has a broken tooth, prompt veterinary care is the best way to ensure their comfort and health. Kenosha Animal Hospital can provide the expert care your cat needs. From diagnosing the problem to providing treatment tailored to your cat’s condition, our team is committed to helping your cat recover fully. Call us today at (262) 658-3533 to schedule an appointment.