Cleopatra’s story: How a dental check gave our elderly cat a new lease of life
A grand old lady in decline
Cleopatra, a cherished family member, was showing signs of ageing. She was 17, frail but dignified, with a wispy coat and a gentle soul. Her days were spent curled on the sofa, seemingly content but increasingly withdrawn. Her owners, Mike and Jenny, noticed her slowing down. They initially attributed it to old age, but something felt off. She was not her usual self.
She had grown up alongside their children, a constant presence through the years. So, they called Paws Indoors to see if anything could be done to help her in her twilight years.
The hidden pain: when teeth are the problem
Cleopatra’s check-up was mostly reassuring—her heart was strong, her tummy fine, her eyes and ears clear. But then we looked in her mouth.
Her teeth were covered in tartar, her gums inflamed and sore. Mike and Jenny were surprised. “But she’s eating fine,” Jenny said.
It’s a common misunderstanding. Pets often continue eating even with advanced dental disease. They’re hungry, and they simply endure the pain. They don’t cry out or limp—pain in their mouth is invisible, but constant. They become less active, less playful and less engaged – symptoms which owners put down to ageing, not pain.
Dental disease isn’t just about the mouth
Rotten teeth don’t just cause localised pain. The inflammation they cause contributes to rapid ageing, affects internal organs, and can even accelerate cognitive decline. It makes arthritis worse and robs pets of their joy in everyday life.
If you clean up the teeth, everything improves.
A brave decision
Mike and Jenny listened to all my reasons for performing dental treatment on Cleopatra, which would involve an anaesthetic and a day at the hospital. They were cautious, as at her age, it wasn’t an easy decision—was it worth the risk and expense for an elderly cat?
We reassured them: we’d run blood tests first to rule out any underlying conditions. If her body was up to it, there was so much she could gain—relief from pain, a better quality of life, and maybe even more precious time.
They bravely agreed.
A second youth
Cleopatra’s dental treatment was a success. She lived another two years, and they were wonderful years.
She became engaged again, choosing to sit on laps, rubbing around Jenny’s legs in the kitchen, and even pouncing on Christmas wrapping paper. She was still old, but now she was herself again—curious, affectionate, and most importantly, alive.
When she finally passed, it was with peace and love. Jenny told us, “We’re so glad we went ahead. Those two years were a gift.”
Is your pet quietly suffering?
If your elderly cat or dog seems to be ‘just getting old,’ don’t assume it’s only age. Subtle changes could be signs of hidden pain, often dental. It’s crucial to pay attention to these signs and seek professional help.
At Paws Indoors, we’re here to help your pets live not just longer lives, but better ones.
🐾 Book a mobile vet visit today
Let us come to you—stress-free, compassionate care right in your home.
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Your pet deserves comfort. Let’s make their golden years truly golden.