Periodontal disease in cats
Also known as Tartar, Gingivitis, Periodontitis.
Plaque and tartar that inflame the gums and destroy the bone holding the teeth in place. Most adult cats have it to some degree.
- System
- Mouth and teeth
- Is it urgent?
- Not usually
- Spreads to other cats
- No
- Spreads to people
- No
- Typical cost in Spain
- Cleaning under anaesthesia, €150–400; more with extractions.
Symptoms
- Bad breath
- Yellow or brown tartar
- Red or bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- Difficulty eating
Causes
A build-up of bacterial plaque. Age, genetics and the shape of the mouth all play a part.
How it is diagnosed
Examination and, to see the bone, dental X-rays under anaesthesia.
Treatment
Professional cleaning under anaesthesia and extraction of badly damaged teeth.
No doses, on purpose: any medicine must be prescribed by your vet for your cat.
Prognosis
Very good if treated before many teeth are lost.
Prevention
Brushing with cat toothpaste, a yearly check-up and cleanings when the vet recommends them.
Breeds at higher risk
It is described more often in these breeds. That does not mean all of their cats will have it, nor that a moggy is free of it.
Frequently asked questions
Is periodontal disease contagious?
No. It does not spread to other cats or to people.
Can periodontal disease be cured?
Very good if treated before many teeth are lost. Professional cleaning under anaesthesia and extraction of badly damaged teeth.
How much does it cost to treat periodontal disease?
As a guide for Spain in 2026: Cleaning under anaesthesia, €150–400; more with extractions. Prices vary a lot between clinics and cities, and out-of-hours emergencies cost more.
Which breeds are most at risk?
It is described more often in Persian, Exotic Shorthair, Abyssinian and Siamese. That does not mean every cat of those breeds will have it, nor that a moggy is free of it.
More in mouth and teeth
Educational content from Michipedia. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a vet: if you have any doubt about your cat's health, ask. Costs are a guide for Spain in 2026.