Feline tooth resorption in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
5 min read

Overview

Symptoms

Risk

Diagnosis

Vet treatment

Home treatment

Prevention

When to worry

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Feline tooth resorption in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
5 min read

Feline tooth resorption, also called FORLS, is a progressive and painful dental problem in cats. It affects between 20 and 75% of adult cats and represents a major ‘hidden‘ health concern.

After periodontal disease, feline tooth resorption is the second most common dental problem affecting cats in the UK. FORLS can affect all ages of cats. It results in broken or missing teeth and swollen, inflamed gums. The condition can be intensely painful, although cats usually hide this. For this reason, FORLS in cats is usually very advanced when diagnosed.

What is feline tooth resorption in cats? >What is feline tooth resorption in cats? [Overview

Symptoms of feline tooth resorption in cats >Symptoms of feline tooth resorption in cats [Symptoms

What are the risks of feline resorptive lesions in cats? >What are the risks of feline resorptive lesions in cats? [Risk

Diagnosis of feline tooth resorption in cats >Diagnosis of feline tooth resorption in cats [Diagnosis

The treatment for feline tooth resorption in cats >The treatment for feline tooth resorption in cats [Vet treatment

Home care for feline tooth resorption >Home care for feline tooth resorption [Home treatment

Reducing the risk of feline tooth resorption >Reducing the risk of feline tooth resorption [Prevention

When to worry about dental disease >When to worry about dental disease [When to worry

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