Help, I'm really worried about my cat, Luna. She's been acting super weird lately and I'm not sure what to do. About a week ago, I noticed she wasn't really eating as much, which is so unlike her because she's usually the first at her food bowl. Then, I saw her pawing at her mouth and it got me thinking something might be off. I took a closer look and saw that her gums seemed swollen and one of her teeth looked kind of...not right? Like almost as if it was dissolving or something. A friend mentioned it might be tooth resorption, but I have no idea what that really means or if I should be panicking. Has anyone else dealt with this? I don't want her to be in pain, but I'm also a bit tight on funds for an unexpected vet visit. Any advice or experiences would be appreciated!
Thanks for the question! Tooth resorption, also known as feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORLs) in cats, can indeed be a common dental issue, and sometimes it affects dogs too. It's when the tooth structure starts breaking down, often leading to discomfort or pain. If your pet is drooling, having trouble eating, or seems to be pawing at their mouth, these might be signs of tooth resorption.
At home, you can gently check your pet's mouth if they're comfortable with it. Look for red or swollen gums, lesions at the gumline, or any missing teeth. However, be careful not to poke around too much, as this can be painful for them.
Providing soft foods can help if they're having trouble eating. Always ensure your pet is hydrated and try to maintain good oral hygiene by using pet-safe toothpaste and a soft brush to keep their teeth clean, if possible.
Watch for any signs of serious discomfort such as significant weight loss, refusal to eat, or extreme drooling. These can suggest a serious issue requiring immediate attention.
Consider booking a video consult with us at Dial A Vet so we can take a closer look at your pet’s condition and offer more specific advice tailored to their needs. We're here to help you and your furry friend!
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