Dear Visitors and Potential Adopters:

Mini Me is an eight year old shorthair female cat that came to the Animal Humane Society back in early May. Her family suspected she had a urinary tract infection and could not afford to pursue veterinary care. We performed a urinalysis, which was normal, and have not observed any abnormalities indicating a urinary tract infection. During her physical examination, it was found that she has what are called oral resorptive lesions on both of her lower third premolar teeth. An ORL (oral resorptive lesion) is also sometimes referred to as a cat cavity, or neck lesion.

ORLs can present in several stages depending on what areas of the tooth are involved. The cause is unknown, although there are many theories being researched. ORLs are usually detected where the tooth crown meets the gum line. They usually appear as a red, raised area of gum tissue alongside the tooth. Tooth resorption may be occurring under the gum line which is undetectable without the use of radiographs. To adequately and thoroughly diagnose which stage a tooth may be in requires probing and dental radiographs (x-rays). This condition is progressive and resorption of the tooth continues until no recognizable tooth structure remains. These lesions are very sensitive when touched, and may even cause some cats to drool or be hesitant to eat or chew. Many times, tooth extraction is the only treatment possible, however, your veterinarian will decide how best to treat this condition in Mini Me.

Stage 1 lesions involve the enamel, and are usually minimally sensitive. Treatment involves cleaning, polishing, and smoothing the defect in the enamel.

Stage 2 lesions are in the enamel and dentin (porous material underneath the hard enamel) and are more sensitive. Treatments have varying success. Fluoride restoratives have been tried to fill the defect to help strengthen the enamel. Long term success is unknown, and does not stop the progression of the disease.

Stage 3 lesions involve the enamel, dentin and pulp chamber (contains nerves and blood supply to the tooth). Treatment requires extraction of the tooth.

Stage 4 lesions show evidence that the crown has been eroded or fractured. Treatment requires extraction of the tooth and roots. If the roots are ankylosed (become part of the jaw bone) without evidence of infection, a crown amputation is performed. This is why radiographs of the tooth are important to obtain prior to treatment.

As we are unable to perform dental radiographs, we are therefore unable to provide appropriate treatment. We are looking for a special adopter who can commit to providing the needed veterinary dental care to Mini Me. Please consider if this commitment to Mini Me would be a good fit for your family.