Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 20th March 2023
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Study reveals feline periodontal disease risk factors
Periodontal disease is the most commonly diagnosed disorder in cats in the UK.
Older cats are most at risk of developing problems.

Age is the strongest predictor of periodontal disease in cats, according to a new study by researchers at the Royal Veterinary College.

The study found that the average age of cats with periodontal disease is 9.47 years, much higher than the average age of 4.94 years for cats without the disorder.

Periodontal disease is estimated to affect 1.8 million cats in the UK every year, making it the most commonly diagnosed feline disease in the UK. It can be hard to spot, as cats naturally try to hide the pain and discomfort which the disease can cause them.

As well as the increased risk as cats grow older, the researchers found that weight was also a significant factor. Cats weighing between 4-7kg were at higher risk of periodontal disease than cats weighing less than 3kg.

The breeds most at risk of developing the disorder were Siamese, Maine coon, and British short hair, according to the study.

The researchers also found that cats diagnosed with periodontal disease were more likely to have other health conditions, being 2.3 times more at risk of having a condition such as cardiac dysrhythmia, ear discharge, or hairball/furball.

The study, published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, was part of the VetCompass research project. Researchers involved in the programme use a database of veterinary clinical records to investigate the range and frequency of health problems in pets and identify risk factors for common diseases.

This latest study looked at a random sample of 18,249 cats taken from the 1,255,130 cats whose veterinary clinical records from 2019 are included in the database.

Dan O’Neill, lead author of the study, said: “Although everyone who loves cats wants to make their lives happier and healthier, sadly we often are not even aware when our cats are suffering from dental pain. This study helps owners to understand how common and serious dental problems are for cats.

“There are many ways owners can help support their good oral health in cats. This includes establishing a routine, brushing at roughly the same time each day and using a veterinary/cat toothpaste which is safe for your pet. It is important to start gradually to allow your cat to get used to the taste and accustomed to having their mouth opened before attempting brushing. If you are in doubt about the health of your cat’s teeth, please do ask your vet for advice.”

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.