Why don't cats have cavities? - briefly
Cats are less likely to develop cavities due to their diet and oral health habits. Their natural diet of raw meat and bones helps keep their teeth clean, while domestic cats often receive dental care from their owners, further reducing the risk of cavities.
Why don't cats have cavities? - in detail
Cats are known for their remarkable oral health, which is often attributed to several factors. Firstly, their diet consists primarily of meat, which contains minimal amounts of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the primary food source for bacteria that cause cavities in humans. By consuming a low-carbohydrate diet, cats significantly reduce the risk of bacterial growth and subsequent tooth decay.
Additionally, cats have a unique oral microbiome that differs from that of humans. The types of bacteria present in a cat's mouth are generally less harmful to their teeth compared to the bacteria found in human mouths. This difference in oral flora contributes to the overall better dental health observed in cats.
Furthermore, cats have a natural instinct to groom themselves, which includes cleaning their teeth with their tongues. This regular self-cleaning action helps remove plaque and tartar buildup, further reducing the risk of cavities. The rough texture of their tongue also aids in this cleaning process by acting as a natural scrubbing tool.
Another factor is the shape and structure of cat teeth. Cats have evolved to have sharp, pointed teeth designed for tearing and shredding meat, rather than chewing. This unique tooth shape can make it more difficult for food particles and bacteria to accumulate, thereby reducing the potential for cavities to form.
Lastly, cats produce a significant amount of saliva, which contains enzymes that help break down food and neutralize acids in the mouth. The increased salivation helps maintain a healthy pH balance, creating an environment less conducive to bacterial growth and tooth decay.
In conclusion, the combination of a low-carbohydrate diet, a unique oral microbiome, regular self-grooming, distinct tooth shape, and abundant saliva production all contribute to cats' exceptional oral health and their resistance to cavities.