Dental disease affects most cats by the age of three, but the signs can be surprisingly easy to miss. Unlike dogs, our feline friends rarely pant, chew toys or grin through discomfort. Instead, they suffer quietly, making early and ongoing support essential.
The most common issues include periodontal disease (gum inflammation caused by plaque), gingivitis, bad breath, and tooth resorption — a painful condition in which the tooth gradually breaks down.
So why do cats develop these problems? Contributing factors include a lack of chewing (especially in cats fed only soft food), plaque and tartar build-up, overactive immune responses, nutritional deficiencies, chronic stress and genetic predisposition. Health conditions affecting the gut or immune system can also impact oral health.
One study found that up to 60% of cats over six years old show signs of tooth resorption, a particularly painful dental condition (Ingham et al., 2001).
What Role Does Diet Play in Oral Health?
Food can make a real difference to your cat’s dental health. Including more texture in their meals encourages natural chewing and helps clean the teeth and gums.
Some cat-safe options include raw meaty bones (always under supervision), freeze-dried raw pieces, and nutrient-rich organ meats such as chicken hearts or lightly cooked gizzards (yum!). Anti-inflammatory foods such as sardines in water, green-lipped mussels, and cooked egg yolk can also support gum health.
What goes in their bowl can help what’s going on in their mouth.
Supporting your cat’s gut health can also help their teeth and gums, thanks to the gut–oral axis - the two-way link between digestive health and oral immunity.
Gentle gut-loving helpers that may make a difference include:
Pumpkin (1–2 tsp cooked, plain): A great source of fibre that helps sweep out toxins and support healthy digestion. Bonus: a happy gut can help reduce bad breath.
Slippery elm tea (1–2 tsp cooled): Made by steeping slippery elm powder in hot water, this soothing tea can calm the tummy and may support immune defences that affect the gums.
Kefir (1–2 tsp plain goat’s milk kefir): A natural probiotic powerhouse that helps balance gut bacteria — and may support the oral microbiome too.
Seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum, ¼ tsp powder, 2–3 times a week): Clinically studied for reducing plaque and bad breath in pets. Use a veterinary product or food-grade seaweed powder — a little goes a long way.
Nutritional yeast (a pinch, 2–3 times a week): Tasty and rich in B vitamins, this can help nourish good bacteria in the gut. Stick to small amounts, especially for cats sensitive to yeast.
Reducing processed carbs and starchy fillers in meals is also important, as these can feed plaque-forming bacteria in the mouth.
Always introduce new foods gradually, especially with cats who have sensitive tummies.
Wait for Signs or Start Now?
We believe that a food-first approach is often best for their health and ours. And by supporting oral and immune health early on, you may reduce the risk of problems developing in the first place.
Chewing, gut health, and anti-inflammatory nutrients all play a role long before symptoms appear. Waiting until problems surface may mean more invasive care is needed later.
Science-Backed Supplements Worth Exploring
Some natural supplements may help support oral health, but always speak to your vet first, especially for older cats or those with medical conditions.
Lactoferrin: May help with gum healing and immune modulation. Doses of 100–200 mg per day are often used in cats.
Ubiquinol: A bioavailable form of CoQ10 that can support gum tissue and mitochondria. Start with a low dose — around 2–10 mg daily.
Boswellia: May ease discomfort in cats with inflamed gums. Doses of 50–100 mg are commonly used.
CBD (cat-safe, THC-free hemp): May support calmness and inflammation response. Suggested dose: 0.1–0.5 mg per kilogram of body weight.
Probiotics (e.g. Bifidobacterium longum 1714): May help reduce stress-related inflammation and support the gut–oral axis. Start small and monitor your cat’s response.
If you’re looking for a gentle way to support your cat’s gut and dental health, our SymbioPaws probiotic might be a helpful addition, designed to nurture immunity, digestion and microbiome balance in cats.
How Do I Know If It’s Working?
The best approach is to introduce one change at a time. Begin with a small amount and gradually increase to the recommended level. Keep a simple journal to note changes in mood, appetite, coat, energy and toilet habits.
Positive changes may include fresher breath, easier chewing, reduced pawing at the face, improved energy levels, and less resistance to touch around the mouth.
Are There Side Effects to Watch Out For?
Lactoferrin is generally well tolerated but may cause mild diarrhoea. If your cat is sensitive to milk proteins, choose a purified or lactose-free version.
Ubiquinol is generally safe for most cats, but it's best to start at a low dose, especially with small breeds.
Omega-3s (e.g. fish oil) can cause loose stools or fishy breath. Always use high-quality, mercury-tested oils and offer with food.
Turmeric can irritate the stomach in high doses or when taken on an empty stomach so always mix it with food.
Boswellia may cause soft stools in some cats. Avoid during pregnancy.
CBD may cause mild sedation. Only use cat-specific, THC-free products.
Probiotics may temporarily loosen stools. Reduce the dose and reintroduce slowly if needed.
Always consult your vet before starting any new supplements — especially if your cat has pancreatitis, liver or kidney issues, or is on medication.
How Do I Know If My Cat Has Tooth Resorption?
Tooth resorption is sadly common in cats, especially as they age. Signs may include:
Reluctance to eat crunchy food
Chewing on one side
Pawing at the mouth
Drooling
Blood-tinged saliva
Bad breath
Irritability
Weight loss
Dental X-rays are often necessary to confirm the diagnosis, as damage can occur below the gum line. Your vet can advise on the best care.
Why Cats Need Different Dental Support from Dogs
Dogs often chew for fun, play with dental toys or even tolerate brushing. Cats? Not so much.
Cats rarely chew for entertainment and often dislike brushing. Their saliva also lacks certain enzymes that help control oral bacteria.
Because cats are sensitive to taste and texture, palatability matters when offering powders or supplements. And since they hide discomfort, signs of dental disease can easily go unnoticed.
How Often Should My Cat See the Vet?
Healthy adult cats should see your vet once a year for a comprehensive check-up, which may include a dental exam. Cats with a history of dental disease or older cats may require visits every six months.
Professional cleaning under anaesthesia is sometimes necessary to remove plaque, treat gum disease or manage advanced decay. This remains the gold standard in feline dental care (Niemiec, 2013).
Final Thoughts
Dental problems in cats are common, but gentle, early support can make a big difference. From a sprinkle of turmeric to a probiotic powder or a freeze-dried chew, food-first strategies can help protect your cat’s smile, and their overall health.
Need help choosing a gut-friendly supplement or chew for your cat? Send us a message or explore our shop. At Pawsome Naturals, we’re here to help with science-backed, feline-friendly care.
Disclaimer
This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not replace veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods, supplements, or treatments, especially if your cat has an existing health condition or is on medication. Pawsome Naturals products are designed to support wellbeing and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.