18 yr old cat, needs dental cleaning. Risks?

[Truthiness Inspector]

I'd like some input, if you don't mind...my beloved gato needs to have his teeth cleaned at this ripe age. He is frisky and sassy, but has plaque build-up so I asked my vet which risk was worse: Anesthesia at his age or letting the tartar/plaque go unchecked. My cat had a blood work-up and they couldn't believe he was 18 because all of his readings are great, no probs.

I think subjecting him to general anesthesia to get his teeth cleaned is in his best interest, but...I need some feedback first. This cat rocks my world, and while I know what needs to be done, I am still very nervous about the risks of putting a cat of his age under general anesthesia.

Feedback, help?

[Lorien]

1. Well you might get a second opinion

generally teeth cleaning is a good idea if there is redness around the gums and tartar buildup. My 17 year old cat started developing tooth abscesses as he got older, and regular cleanings would have helped avoid that but I, like you, was worried about putting him under for the cleanings. They might also be able to do it using a bit of gas instead-I'm not sure. Ask a few vets about their options first and check his mouth yourself so that you feel comfortable about your decision.

[Truthiness Inspector]

2. Thank you for your response

I have checked his mouth and he needs a cleaning; the vets aren't BSing. Last cleaning was about 5 years ago, and he came through it like a champ. He's a big fatty black and gray tomcat, who always seems like he's got life under control. Best cat ever. I don't want to wait for the abcesses, so I think you did answer my question. Thank you.

[Lorien]

5. I think that you'll be glad that you did take him in

abscesses require general anesthesia for removal anyway (with a greater risk of infection), and it sounds like he's about at the age where he might develop them. Best of luck to Gato at the kitty dentist! Let us know how it goes.

[stuntcat]

3. *gato vibes*

I wish I knew an answer, the second opinion is a good start I think.. and it sounds like you're thinking of the possibilities.

He might be so fit and healthy that he forgets about this altogether soon. And having the weak spots in his mouth might subject him to little infections that could hurt him more at his age.

[Truthiness Inspector]

4. This guy could charm anyone

The prob is that once they have the build-up of plaque/bacteria it can go into their bloodstream. At 18 my cat still jumps and plays, doesn't look old and gray, AND commands three dogs. But I know he is 18, and the risks that come with that. I apppreciate your input and thank you for it. This is difficult for me. I'm sure he will be ok. Never in his life has he had medical problems, he can get through this, right?

[Lorien]

7. Cats can live well into their 20s

so 18 isn't terribly ancient. Sounds like he's got the health of a much younger kitty, so he should be fine. My 17 year old Miro managed many cancer surgeries without a hitch-and he was nowhere near as spry as your fellow.

[devilgrrl]

6. il mio gatto is losing one of his little fangs :-(

He's 15.

[GreenPartyVoter]

8. My 14 yo boy kitteh just had it despite his thyroid issues. Had an infected tooth removed because

it was making him miserable and put him at risk for sepsis. He came through with flying colors!

Still, the vet knows best. If (s)he says don't bother because it's not a big deal then I wouldn't force the issue. For my Pretzel, though, it was starting to look like a life and death situation (Wouldn't eat, wouldn't take thyroid meds) so we knew we had to do it.

Good luck with Gato! :hug: