Review of feline oral disease

Abstract

The wide spectrum of dental and oral conditions that affect cats pose both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, as they may present with similar signs at different stages of each disease process. This two‐part article provides an overview of common feline oral disease and summarises recent progress in the understanding of different disease processes. The ability to diagnose and successfully treat the conditions discussed assumes a detailed knowledge of the normal anatomy, development and appearance of the feline oral cavity as well as competence in the necessary diagnostic procedures of history taking, charting, and dental and oral radiography. Part 1 discusses the diagnostic and treatment options for periodontitis and chronic gingivostomatitis. Part 2, to be published in the February issue of In Practice, will discuss other common oral conditions encountered in cats.