Why Do Cats Grind Their Teeth? 10 Reasons & How to Prevent

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a concerning behavior that some cats exhibit. It can be caused by various factors, ranging from anxiety to serious medical conditions. This behavior can lead to teeth wear and potential damage to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), impacting your cat's long-term oral health. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why cats grind their teeth and what you can do to address this issue.

What Is Teeth Grinding?

Teeth grinding, known as bruxism, is a behavior observed in cats. It involves your cat clenching their jaws, moving their lower jaw from side to side, and producing a grinding or grating sound as their bottom teeth rub against the top ones. This behavior is usually an indicator of pain or discomfort, and cats rarely grind their teeth without a reason. Persistent teeth grinding can lead to abnormal wear of your cat's teeth and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the lower jaw to the skull. It's crucial to identify the cause of teeth grinding promptly to eliminate the source of pain and prevent irreversible dental damage.

Why Do Cats Grind Their Teeth? 10 Common Reasons

Tooth Resorption

Tooth resorption, also known as feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORLs), is a common dental condition affecting nearly 75% of cats over 5 years old. This painful condition involves the gradual dissolution of a cat's tooth, exposing the pulp cavity and making the tooth susceptible to breaking. In severe cases, the entire tooth may be lost. The exact cause of this condition remains unknown, but a diagnosis typically involves dental X-rays to assess the extent of damage. Treatment usually requires the removal of affected teeth under general anesthesia.

Gum Disease

 Inflammatory gum disease, specifically gingivitis, is common among cats, though it tends to be more prevalent in older felines. It often results from bacterial buildup on a cat's teeth, leading to plaque formation and ultimately periodontal disease. As time progresses, the gums become increasingly inflamed, causing the tooth to become loose and potentially lost. Viruses, such as feline calicivirus, feline leukemia virus, and feline immunodeficiency virus, can also contribute to gingivitis. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent further complications. Treatment may involve scaling the teeth above and below the gum line, removal of diseased teeth, and, in some cases, antibiotics to manage inflammation.

Abnormal Alignment of Teeth

Some cats are born with misaligned teeth, a condition known as malocclusion. This issue is more common among brachycephalic breeds like Persians and Himalayans with flatter faces. However, it can also occur in cats with longer, pointier faces like Siamese cats. Malocclusion can hinder the proper closing of the mouth, resulting in friction between misaligned upper and lower teeth. This constant rubbing can lead to unintentional teeth grinding. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate treatment, often involving the removal of specific teeth under general anesthesia.

Foreign Objects Stuck in the Mouth

Cats can occasionally get foreign objects lodged in their mouths, ranging from prey animal bones to plant material or even plastic. Older cats may be particularly prone to getting items like hair and food stuck between their teeth. As cats are naturally curious, they can easily trap foreign objects in their mouths, leading to teeth grinding as they attempt to dislodge them. Swift removal of such objects is essential.

Loose or Broken Teeth

Dental diseases can result in loose or wobbly teeth, causing pain and discomfort that may lead to teeth grinding. Cats may sometimes fracture their teeth due to chewing on hard substances or as a result of weakened teeth due to disease. If a tooth fracture exposes the pulp, the tooth becomes highly sensitive. In some cases, even regular eating can trigger pain and result in teeth grinding. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying dental issues, which may include tooth removal.

Fractured Jaw

Cats involved in road traffic accidents or those with severe dental diseases may experience jaw fractures. Cat jaws are delicate, and sometimes a fractured jaw can lead to pain or misalignment, both of which may result in teeth grinding.

Cancer

Oral tumors can cause significant discomfort and are a potential cause of teeth grinding in cats. If you suspect your cat might have oral tumors, consult your veterinarian for a full oral examination. Common symptoms of oral cavity cancer include a loss of appetite, especially for hard foods, weight loss, drooling, difficulty swallowing, bad breath, facial swelling, and swollen gums. Early diagnosis is crucial for appropriate treatment.

Pain from Other Areas of the Body

Teeth grinding may be an indication that your cat is experiencing pain elsewhere in their body. Conditions such as pancreatitis, arthritis, or inflammatory bowel disease can cause pain or discomfort that may result in teeth grinding. Essentially, any painful condition can lead a cat to grit or grind their teeth.

Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are common issues in pet cats and can manifest in various ways, including teeth grinding, overgrooming, or urinary problems. Stressors can vary, and identifying the exact source can sometimes be challenging. Changes in their routine can lead to stress. In such cases, using calming supplements or pheromone diffusers like Feliway can help alleviate anxiety, making your cat feel more relaxed and secure.

Neurological Conditions

Although less common, teeth grinding in cats can result from neurological conditions, such as seizures. Classic seizures are usually accompanied by loss of consciousness, limb paddling, and loss of bladder or bowel control. However, various seizure types exist, and some may present more subtly. If you suspect your cat might have experienced a seizure, consult your veterinarian for a proper evaluation

Diagnosing and Treating Cat Teeth Grinding

Treating teeth grinding in cats depends on identifying the underlying cause. Ignoring teeth grinding is not advisable, as it typically indicates pain or an underlying medical condition. If oral pain is ruled out as the cause, your veterinarian might recommend blood tests, imaging (such as x-rays or ultrasounds), or other diagnostic measures to pinpoint the issue. Treatment varies based on the cause but often involves dental procedures, pain management, and addressing the underlying problem.

How to Prevent Teeth Grinding in Cats?

The best prevention for teeth grinding is maintaining your cat's oral health. Regular tooth brushing, even starting when they are young, can be effective. Schedule annual oral check-ups with your veterinarian to promptly identify any dental issues. Your veterinarian might recommend professional teeth cleaning and removal of problem teeth if needed.

In conclusion, teeth grinding in cats should not be ignored, as it often signifies an underlying problem. Always consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Regular oral care and check-ups are key to maintaining your cat's dental health.