Symptoms, Causes & Natural Remedies

Tooth resorption is a common dental condition in cats, also known as feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORL). Tooth resorption occurs when the structure of the tooth is broken down, and the tooth eventually disintegrates. In this guide, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and natural ways to help manage tooth resorption in cats.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of tooth resorption in cats may include:

• Difficulty eating or chewing
• Drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Blood in the saliva
• Sensitivity to touch around the mouth
• Bad breath
• Visible cavities or holes in the teeth

Causes:

The exact cause of tooth resorption in cats is unknown, but there are several theories. Some of these include:

• Genetics
• Diet – Diets high in carbohydrates (like highly processed dry foods) may lead to inflammation in the mouth and contribute to tooth resorption.
• Trauma to the tooth
• Poor dental hygiene
• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

Natural Remedies:

Here are some natural ways to help manage tooth resorption in cats:

1. Brushing teeth – Regular brushing of your cat’s teeth can help prevent plaque and tartar build-up, which can lead to tooth resorption. Use a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.
2. Feeding a healthy diet – Feeding your cat a diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in protein (like a species appropriate fresh food) can help reduce inflammation in the mouth and prevent tooth resorption.
3. Providing dental bones or toys – Chewing on raw meaty bones (never cooked bones) or natural dental sticks (like silvervine sticks) can help remove plaque and tartar from your cat’s teeth, which can help prevent tooth resorption.
4. Regular dental check-ups – Regular dental check-ups can help identify tooth resorption early and prevent further damage to the tooth.
5. Homeopathy – Homeopathic remedies like silica, calcarea phosphorica, and calcarea fluorica can help promote healthy teeth and gums and reduce inflammation in the mouth.

Conclusion:

Tooth resorption is a common dental condition in cats that can cause discomfort and pain. It’s essential to recognize the symptoms and seek veterinary care promptly. By following these natural ways to help manage tooth resorption in cats, you can help prevent further damage to your cat’s teeth and promote good oral health.