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My old cat has dental pain. How can I ease it without anesthesia?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 28 years and 6 months old | 8 lbs

I have a cat who is 28 yrs old. She has arthritis, a heart murmur, some kidney dysfunction, and is completely deaf. She also has some dental problems that I think are causing her pain. She frequently sits next to her water bowl, with her chin in the bowl. She will sit there for hours, I think to relieve dental pain. My vet won't do dental work because he doesn't want to anesthetize her due to her age. I know she won't be with me much longer but is there anything that can be done to relieve pain?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 5th, 2019

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Cutie. I would recommend considering a pain medication trial such as with gabapentin. This is typically a safe medication for animals with underlying illnesses. This could bring her some comfort. What a long life she has had. You are obviously doing a great job with her! I hope this information helps!

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