{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "headline": "Cat tooth extraction — when, why and how does a cat do?", "description": "Does cat tooth extraction scare you? Learn why TR disease requires tooth extraction and how just fine your cat is doing (and eating!) without teeth.", "datePublished": "Jan 27, 2026", }

Cat tooth extraction — when, why and how does a cat do?

📍 Veterinary Hospital Sacrum, Vantaa — Dental care for cats

The idea of removing a cat's teeth seems drastic to many owners. How can a cat eat without teeth? Does its quality of life suffer?

In reality, tooth extraction is often the best favor you can do to your cat if its mouth is sore.

Why do teeth have to be removed?

We do not remove teeth in vain. The most common reasons for removal are:

  1. TR disease (Tooth Resorption): The cat's own body erodes the tooth. This causes a nerve pain comparable to a bad toothache in humans. The only treatment is to remove the tooth that causes pain.
  2. Advanced periodontitis: The attachment tissue of the tooth is destroyed, and the tooth sags or there is a purulent deposit at its base.
  3. Tooth fractures: A broken tooth with its core open is a pathway for bacteria and causes pain.

Can a cat do without teeth?

Yes, excellently!

A cat is a carnivore that does not need molars to chop food in the same way that vegetarians (or humans) do. A cat is able to eat both wet food and blisters even completely toothless.

Often, owners report that after tooth extraction, the cat has rejuvenated in the eyes: it is more playful, sociable and eats better when chronic pain is gone.

Recovery from depreciation

Teeth removal is always performed surgically at the Veterinary Hospital Sacrum and sutured with sutures.

  • Pain medication: The cat gets a good pain medication at home.
  • Feeding: A couple of weeks of soft food to allow the ticks to have a peaceful molt.
  • Control: We make sure that the gums have healed.

Don't be afraid of the removal decision — it will remove the pain and restore your cat's joy of life.

📞 Make an appointment for a dental check-up: 010 739 9130

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