How to Troubleshoot Feline Cat Chewing Problems

Your cat may have chewing problems if he isn't eating as usual.

Cat chewing problems can be difficult to diagnose because cats don't show pain readily. Because most cats are stoic, as an owner, you must observe your cat and examine him frequently if you suspect something is wrong. Strange behavior that you would normally not see in your cat, such as hiding or lack of grooming, may be an indication of a problem in your cat's mouth. Weight loss is another sign that your cat may have a chewing problem.

Things You'll Need

• Cat food

Instructions

1. Offer your cat a bowl of food and watch him eat. Does he turn and walk away? Does he pick at it? Does he look hungry and try to eat but drop it? These are all signs of possible mouth or teeth problems.

2. Look at your cat's overall physical condition. Has your cat recently lost weight? Does he appear well-groomed or does he look ratty? Anything that looks out of the ordinary may be a sign of a tooth or gum problem.

3. Smell your cat's breath. Does it stink like old socks or does it smell neutral? Stinky breath is a sure sign of gingivitis (a gum infection) or abscessed tooth.

4. Lift up your cat's lip gently and examine his teeth and gums, if he will allow you to touch his mouth at all. Look for redness on the gums or lumps or bumps above the teeth. Look for accumulated tartar, which is another sign of gingivitis.

   If your cat hisses, swats or moves away quickly, it is a sign he's probably in pain and doesn't want to be touched!

5. Inspect the roof of his mouth, if he's still letting you look into his mouth. Look for unusual lumps, indicating infection or a tumor. These will definitely cause chewing problems.

6. Make an appointment with the veterinarian if you find anything unusual, or if you can't find the cause but symptoms persist.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not try to handle an angry or aggressive cat--you will get scratched or bit.

• If your cat shows any sign of discomfort, stop. Bring your cat to the veterinarian for a complete examination.

References

• "Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," Delbert G. Carlson DVM and James M Giffin MD, 1995.