10737 Venice Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90034
(310) 559-3770
Center-Sinai Animal Hospital
Serving the Los Angeles Community since 1969
10737 Venice Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90034
(310) 559-3770
Full
range of pet care and emergency veterinary services available
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Please note: if you believe your pet's situation is critical, Dr.
Baum urges you to contact your vet ASAP.
Dear Dr. Baum --
My 13 year old
cat has dental problems. He has a coating of brownish plaque all
over his teeth along with a green substance along the right back
side of his gums. His dental problems have been ongoing. What do you
believe this problem is? What can be done? Is it very expensive to
treat?
With my first check, I would love to fix this and hopefully prolong his life. I'm
16 and working part time and I don't have a lot of money. My mother
refuses to pay for vet bills. Please answer. Your advice could maybe
convince her to help me pay.
Thank you,
Corinne, NYC
Dear Corinne--
The basic question is
relatively easy, but the solution could vary from easy to complex.
What you describe on the teeth is a deposition of a substance known
as tarter. This results from a failure to keep the teeth clean.
Tarter is a good place for bacteria to hang out and cause infections
in the surrounding gums. When infections occur the gums will often
swell and have a foul odor. Ultimately the teeth start to loosen and
can fall out. Infections in the mouth can also cause problems in the
heart or kidneys. The obvious remedy is to have the teeth cleaned.
Depending on the cat's state of health this can be a minor procedure
or a more serious one as in most cases a general anesthetic is used.
My advice is to have your cat examined by a veterinarian. He or she
may want to do a blood test prior to giving an anesthetic.
After the teeth are cleaned and any infections are cleared up, you
should start a program of oral hygiene. This would consist of wiping
or gently brushing the teeth at home one to two times per week.
Costs for these services can vary from $200 and up.
Good luck! Dr. Baum
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