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Part of caring for a pet cat is ensuring their dental health is monitored and managed as time goes on. Your veterinarian likely checks your cat’s teeth every time they go in for a checkup. Even so, you might be surprised when your veterinarian tells you one of your cat’s teeth must be extracted.
First and foremost, your cat’s health and safety are your biggest concerns. However, you should know how much it costs to remove your cat’s tooth so you can effectively budget for the procedure. So, what is the average cost of a cat tooth extraction? Estimates go around $60-$140 per tooth, plus aftercare costs. Let’s dive in for more details.
The Average Cat Tooth Extraction Cost
The exact cost of extracting a cat’s tooth will vary depending on several factors, such as the number and type of teeth needing extraction, infections, abscesses, blood work, x-rays, medications, etc. The cost will vary depending on the other services that might be necessary before, during, or after the extraction.
That is why you should contact your veterinary clinic for a detailed estimate for your cat. Online cost estimates of anywhere from $60 to more than $140 per tooth usually don’t include all the costs associated with a dental treatment.
Considering services such as check-ups, anesthesia, x-rays, pain relief, and antibiotics, you may pay somewhere between $500 and $1,150 when all is said and done. Complicated or extensive dentistry will cost more, but your vet can provide an estimate of the cost. They usually provide an estimate rather than a quote.
Once your cat is anesthetized, the vet will be able to examine under the plaque and tartar and may find other teeth that need to be repaired or extracted. Veterinarians don’t want the cost of dentistry to stop pet parents from seeking care for their cats.
Please talk to your vet about your situation if your cat needs dental work, but you have financial constraints. Vets are used to discussing options that will achieve the best overall outcome.
Common Reasons for the Need to Extract a Cat Tooth
The most common causes of a cat’s tooth needing to be extracted are decay and disease development. However, there are multiple reasons that your veterinarian might recommend that one of your cat’s teeth should be removed:
- Periodontal disease — This is the inflammation and infection of the gums and structures surrounding and supporting the teeth.
- Crowding — When too many teeth grow in too small a space, they crowd each other, and it can cause dental health problems as time goes on. This is more likely in short-faced cats such as Persians. Removing a tooth or two can create more space for the remaining teeth to utilize for better health overall.
- Fractures — Sometimes, a cat can fracture a tooth due to an accident or feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions, which cause pain and can lead to infection. The tooth is unlikely to be able to be repaired, so it will need to be extracted to relieve pain.
You may become aware of the need to extract your cat’s tooth without visiting the veterinarian first. However, it is vital to verify the diagnosis with your vet before you start budgeting for the procedure. All cats need an examination before a dental procedure is booked to ensure they’re healthy enough for anesthesia.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes, there is no getting around the need to extract a cat’s tooth. Now you know how much you can expect to pay if the need arises sometime this year. It is essential to work closely with your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has dental problems.
Dental disease is a cause of significant pain and discomfort and should be taken care of at the earliest possible opportunity. For tooth-friendly foods, treats, and dental products that could help reduce the risk of dental disease in your cat, look at the list on the Veterinary Oral Health Council website.
Featured Image By: Burdun Iliya, Shutterstock
