Other known risk factors for feline dental disease are the feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus . Severe disease of the teeth and gums can alert the veterinarian to test for these diseases. In some cases, owners are unaware that their cat has dental disease. The problem may be identified with a routine physical examination or during investigation of another problem. In other situations, the probability of dental disease is apparent to the owner.
Many different disorders can lead to dental disease in the cat.
Diagnosis of dental disease is usually very straightforward. In most cases, the true extent of the disease cannot be determined unless the cat is under anesthesia. This facilitates a more complete examination of the oral cavity. Proper cleaning of the teeth requires complete cooperation of the patient so that plaque and tartar can be removed properly. Anesthesia is required to thoroughly clean the teeth.