Dental disease is the most common health problem in cats over 3 years old. Dental cleaning is the most effective treatment — but it comes with a cost and requires anaesthesia.
Why Anaesthesia Is Required
Unlike humans, cats cannot be asked to open wide and stay still. Full dental examination, probing, and cleaning below the gumline cannot be done safely or effectively without general anaesthesia. Anaesthesia-free dental cleaning is not recommended by veterinary dental specialists.
What Is Included
- Pre-anaesthetic blood tests
- General anaesthesia
- Full mouth X-rays
- Scaling (ultrasonic removal of tartar)
- Polishing
- Charting of all teeth
- Extractions if needed (additional cost)
Typical Costs
- UK: £300–£700 without extractions; £500–£1,200+ with extractions
- Germany: €300–€700
- Spain: €200–€500
- France: €300–€600
How to Reduce Costs
- Home dental care (toothbrushing, dental diets) reduces how frequently professional cleaning is needed
- Pet insurance — some policies cover dental treatment
- Early treatment prevents expensive extractions later