Dental problems are common in cats, and sometimes tooth extraction is the best solution to relieve pain and restore health. But after surgery, many pet parents wonder: “What should I feed my cat after a tooth extraction?”
Feeding the right foods during recovery helps prevent discomfort, encourages healing, and ensures your cat still gets proper nutrition.
Why Diet Matters After Dental Surgery
Cats that have undergone extractions often have:
- Sore or swollen gums
- Temporary difficulty chewing
- Reduced appetite
- Higher risk of infection if food irritates the wound
That’s why soft, easy-to-eat meals are essential during the healing period.
Best Foods for Cats After Tooth Extraction
1. Soft Wet Food
- Pâté-style canned food is easiest to lap without chewing.
- Warm slightly to enhance aroma and encourage eating.
- Add a bit of water or broth if the texture is still too thick.
2. Prescription Recovery Diets
- Hill’s a/d, Royal Canin Recovery, or Purina CN are vet-recommended for cats healing from surgery.
- High in calories and nutrients, so cats get what they need even if they eat small amounts.
3. Homemade Options (Short-Term)
If canned food isn’t available, you can try:
- Boiled chicken or turkey, shredded finely.
- Soft scrambled eggs.
- Plain baby food meats (no garlic, onion, or seasoning).
These should only be temporary and balanced with a complete cat diet once healing progresses.
4. Liquid Diet (If Necessary)
- Some cats may need syringe feeding if they refuse food.
- A vet can recommend or prescribe liquid diets safe for cats.
Feeding Tips
- Offer small, frequent meals to avoid strain.
- Serve food at room temperature—cold food can irritate sensitive gums.
- Keep water bowls clean and nearby—hydration aids healing.
- Avoid dry kibble until your vet confirms it’s safe.
Foods to Avoid
- Hard kibble or crunchy treats (can irritate gums).
- Raw bones or meat (risk of bacteria and chewing difficulty).
- Dairy products (can upset digestion).
- Human foods with seasoning, especially onion or garlic.
Transitioning Back to Normal Food
- Healing usually takes 1–2 weeks depending on the number of teeth removed.
- Start with soft food only.
- After vet approval, gradually reintroduce kibble (if your cat prefers it).
- Some cats may remain on a soft-food diet permanently after multiple extractions.
When to Call the Vet
Contact your vet if you notice:
- Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours
- Excessive drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Bleeding, swelling, or foul odor from the mouth
- Lethargy or fever
These may indicate infection or complications.
Final Thoughts
So, what should you feed a cat after tooth extraction?
The safest choices are soft wet food, prescription recovery diets, or gentle homemade meals. Avoid kibble and hard foods until your vet gives the all-clear. With the right care and diet, your cat should return to comfortable eating in no time.
At Petsaw, we believe recovery starts with nutrition. A soft, nourishing diet helps cats heal faster and feel better after dental surgery.
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