At A Cat's View Veterinary Hospital
Your cat’s oral health plays a crucial role in their overall well-being and comfort. Conditions such as gingivitis, tartar buildup, tooth decay, and other dental issues are common among cats, with many experiencing some level of dental disease that requires professional care.
At A Cat’s View Veterinary Hospital, we understand that it’s important for you to know what kind of care your cat will receive during a dental procedure. We encourage open communication and are happy to answer any questions you may have. While cost is a consideration, it’s vital to understand that veterinary clinics can differ significantly in their protocols, tools, pain management, and overall approach to care.
Our hospital adheres to the highest standards of feline dentistry as recommended by the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). We take pride in providing exceptional care and treat every patient as if they were our own cat.
Every dental procedure begins with a thorough physical examination. During this exam, the veterinarian will assess visible dental disease and note any abnormalities in the gums, tongue, or other oral tissues. They will also look for fractured or missing teeth, unusual odors, and other signs of oral health issues.
We ensure that your cat is a suitable candidate for anesthesia by evaluating their medical history, performing diagnostic tests such as bloodwork, and conducting imaging when needed. This careful pre-operative screening ensures that the procedure is safe and tailored to your cat’s individual needs.
To perform a dental procedure effectively and safely, anesthesia is required. Cats cannot be expected to remain still during intricate dental work, and sudden movements could cause harm. Anesthesia also minimizes anxiety and ensures your cat is comfortable throughout the procedure.
Throughout the procedure, a dedicated anesthetic technician continuously monitors your cat’s heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, temperature, and blood pressure, making real-time adjustments to ensure their safety and comfort.
We perform full-mouth digital dental radiographs for every patient. This allows us to assess not only the visible parts of the teeth but also the structures below the gum line, where most dental diseases occur.
Each tooth is carefully examined using visual inspection, probing, and x-ray results to determine whether extraction is necessary. If extractions are required, we ensure the process is as pain-free as possible by administering a local nerve block to numb the area before we begin.
Teeth are extracted using a combination of precision hand tools and high-speed drills, and we always smooth and close the extraction site with dissolvable sutures. Post-extraction x-rays confirm that no root fragments are left behind, preventing future pain or infection.
The remaining teeth are cleaned using an ultrasonic scaler to remove tartar above and below the gum line. We then polish the teeth to smooth their surfaces, reducing plaque buildup. A dental sealant is applied as a final step to protect the teeth and slow the accumulation of bacteria.
After the procedure, your cat is carefully monitored by a technician during recovery from anesthesia. We provide heat support, oxygen, and any necessary post-operative care to ensure a smooth and safe recovery.
Once fully recovered, we continue IV fluid therapy to maintain hydration and minimize stress during additional supportive treatments such as antibiotics, pain management, and appetite stimulants when needed. The type and duration of pain control are tailored to the extent of the procedure to ensure your cat remains comfortable.