Tooth resorption in cats
Also known as Feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions, FORL, Cat cavities.
The cat’s own body gradually destroys the structure of a tooth. It is very common in adults, very painful, and cats hide it.
- System
- Mouth and teeth
- Is it urgent?
- Not usually
- Spreads to other cats
- No
- Spreads to people
- No
- Typical cost in Spain
- Dental cleaning with X-rays and extractions, €300–800.
Symptoms
- Chews on one side or drops food
- Jaw chatters when a tooth is touched
- Red gum growing over part of the tooth
- Bad breath
- Sometimes no visible signs
Causes
Unknown. It becomes more common with age.
How it is diagnosed
Dental X-rays under anaesthesia: without them the tooth cannot be assessed.
Treatment
Extraction of the tooth or, in some types, crown amputation.
No doses, on purpose: any medicine must be prescribed by your vet for your cat.
Prognosis
Very good after treatment, although lesions may appear on other teeth.
Prevention
It cannot be prevented; have a dental check-up every year.
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 tooth resorption contagious?
No. It does not spread to other cats or to people.
Can tooth resorption be cured?
Very good after treatment, although lesions may appear on other teeth. Extraction of the tooth or, in some types, crown amputation.
How much does it cost to treat tooth resorption?
As a guide for Spain in 2026: Dental cleaning with X-rays and extractions, €300–800. 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 Siamese, Abyssinian and Persian. 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.