Tooth resorption in cats is a prevalent and often painful condition that affects up to two thirds of cats. This condition is characterized by the gradual breakdown and absorption of tooth structures by the body. It is the most common cause of tooth loss in cats, with a higher incidence in cats older than three years.

Types of Feline Tooth Resorption
There are two main types of tooth resorption in cats:

• Type 1: This type involves the resorption of focal areas of a diseased tooth, which then can be replaced with inflammatory granulation tissue. These areas appear less dense on dental radiographs compared to tooth or bone.

• Type 2: In this type, diseased teeth are replaced with a bone-like material, and dental x-rays may show tooth remnants within the bone.

Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of tooth resorption in cats remains unknown, despite extensive research. It has not been linked to oral bacteria, which differentiates it from cavities common in humans. 


Clinical Presentation and Symptoms
Cats with tooth resorption may exhibit a range of symptoms, including:

• Drooling

• Difficulty chewing

• Dropping food while eating

• Jaw "chattering" during meals

• Avoidance of the food bowl

However, many cats may not show any overt signs of pain or altered behavior, making it challenging to recognize the condition at home. An oral exam is a part of a standard physical exam or annual exam at Yarmouth Veterinary Center, and is one of the most common methods of diagnosing the disease.


Diagnosis and Treatment
Definitive diagnosis typically involves a combination of an anesthetized oral exam and dental radiographs to differentiate tooth resorption from other oral conditions, and to assess the extent of the damage. These lesions can be challenging to determine their full extent visually on a standard physical exam or even on the anesthetized oral exam, hence the reliance on x-rays.

Treatment depends on the type of resorption:

• Type 1 lesions require the extraction of the tooth, including the roots, through surgical extraction.

• Type 2 lesions often require a crown amputation, which removes the diseased portion of the tooth while leaving the resorbing roots intact.

Prevention and Management
There is no known prevention for tooth resorption in cats. However, we strongly recommend annual exams and annual anesthetized dental exams and cleanings. This will help catch symptoms and signs early, and can help address tooth resorption before it progresses to a severe stage. We believe it is vital for cat owners to partner with their veterinarians to manage this condition effectively.


In conclusion, tooth resorption in cats is a complex condition requiring proactive management and professional veterinary care. While it cannot be prevented, early detection and treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for affected cats.