Permanent Teeth Pressing into the Jaw in cats
The symptom “Permanent teeth pressing into the jaw” in cats describes a situation where a cat’s permanent teeth do not erupt correctly and instead cause pressure in the jaw. This can lead to pain, malocclusion, and other dental problems.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
Cats have two sets of teeth in their lives: baby teeth and permanent teeth. The baby teeth usually erupt at around two to four weeks of age and are normally replaced by permanent teeth between the fourth and sixth month of life. During this transition, the baby teeth should normally fall out to make room for the permanent teeth.
A common problem occurs when the baby teeth do not fall out in time, which is referred to as “retained deciduous teeth”. If the baby tooth remains in the jaw, the permanent tooth cannot erupt correctly and puts pressure on the jaw. This situation can lead to malocclusion, which affects both the cat’s eating and overall oral health.
Genetic factors can also play a role. Certain cat breeds, such as Persians or British Shorthairs, are more prone to malocclusion due to their genetic predisposition. Developmental disorders of the jaw or dentition can also increase the risk of permanent teeth not erupting correctly.
Another possible cause is an inflammatory condition or infection in the oral cavity, which can hinder the eruption of the teeth. In rare cases, tumors or cysts in the jaw area can increase pressure and interfere with normal tooth eruption.
Typical accompanying symptoms
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Pain when chewing: The cat shows discomfort or pain when it tries to eat. This can manifest as frequent dropping of food or chewing on only one side of the mouth.
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Excessive salivation: Increased salivation can be a sign that the cat has pain or discomfort in its mouth.
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Swelling in the jaw area: A swelling may indicate inflammatory conditions or infections related to the pressure from the teeth.
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Bad breath: An unpleasant odor from the mouth may indicate bacterial infections or dental problems.
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Changes in eating behavior: The cat eats less or shows altered preferences in food, such as soft food instead of dry food.
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Increased Scratching or rubbing of the face: This can be a sign that the cat is trying to relieve the discomfort or pressure in the jaw.
When to visit the vet?
A visit to the vet is essential if the above symptoms occur, especially if they worsen or persist for more than a few days. Ignored dental problems can lead to serious health complications, including infections that can spread to other parts of the body.
If the cat shows signs of pain, such as refusing food or constantly rubbing its face, it should be presented to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Pain in the mouth area may indicate more serious problems that require immediate treatment.
Even if a visible swelling occurs in the jaw or face area, an immediate visit to the veterinarian is advisable. This could indicate an infection or an abscess that needs to be treated.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
For the pet owner, recognizing these symptoms can be difficult at first, as cats are masters at hiding pain. Regular observations of eating behavior and oral care are crucial. Pay attention to changes in your cat’s behavior, especially if it suddenly eats less or avoids certain foods.
The veterinarian will perform a thorough examination of the cat’s mouth to determine the cause of the pressure in the jaw. This may include X-rays of the jaw to assess the position of the teeth and possible abnormalities in the jawbone. The veterinarian will also look for signs of infections or inflammatory conditions.
In some cases, a blood test may be necessary to assess the cat’s general health and determine if there is a systemic infection. If Tumors or cysts are suspected, further diagnostic procedures such as a biopsy may be necessary.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
The pet owner can take some measures to relieve the cat’s discomfort. First, access to soft food should be ensured, as this makes chewing easier and reduces pain. Avoid dry food or hard treats that could put additional pressure on the affected teeth.
Good oral hygiene is crucial. Regular brushing with a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for cats can help reduce the formation of plaque and the risk of infection. However, it is important to do this gently to avoid causing further pain.
Until the veterinarian has examined the cat, you should try to minimize the cat’s stress. A quiet, stress-free habitat can help improve the cat’s overall well-being and support the healing process.
After diagnosis by the veterinarian, targeted treatment can be initiated, which may vary depending on the cause of the symptom. This could include the extraction of persistent baby teeth or the treatment of infections. The veterinarian will suggest the best treatment plan based on your cat’s specific needs.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.