1. Difficulty Eating:
- Pain when chewing or a reluctance to eat.
- Dropping or avoiding food while trying to eat.
- Chewing on one side or favor only some foods.
- Weight loss or failure to gain weight.
2. Sensitivity to Touch:
- Avoid touching around its mouth.
- Hissing or growling if you touch its mouth or face.
3. Oral Symptoms:
- Bad breath (halitosis) or a foul odor coming from the mouth.
- Swelling, redness, or other visible changes around the mouth or gums.
- Bleeding or excessive salivation (drooling).
4. Behavioral Changes:
- Excessive grooming/scratching around its face, mouth, or ear.
- Irritability, withdrawal, or hiding more frequently.
- Unusual vocalization, such as meowing more frequently or sounding different than usual.
If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take your cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible for a proper evaluation and treatment. Delaying treatment can worsen the dental issue and lead to severe pain and complications. Early detection and treatment can help ensure your cat's dental health and overall well-being.