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Imagine your cat silently suffering every time they eat. Most dental problems in cats go unnoticed—until it’s too late.
From painful tooth resorption to sneaky gum infections, dental health isn’t just about fresh breath—it’s about saving your pet from chronic pain and costly treatments. Here’s what you need to know before your next vet visit.
| Winner | Runner-Up | Third Place |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
| Get A Quote | Get A Quote | Get A Quote |
Table of Contents
What Dental Conditions Does Pet Insurance Cover? (Comparison Table)
The table below offers a clear, side-by-side look at each insurer’s dental coverage to help you compare your options at a glance. Remember, policy details can differ based on your location and your pet’s profile—so always double-check coverage specifics and exclusions directly with the provider before signing up.
| Company | Exam Fees | Wellness Plans* | Teeth Cleaning Allowance (Wellness Plan) | Non-Routine Dental Care | Gum Disease | Extractions | Endodontic Disease | Developmental Abnormalities | Dental Trauma | Get A Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|  | | Up to $125 | | | | | | | Get A Quote |
| | | Up to $700 | | | | | | | Get A Quote |
| Extra Fee | | $150 | | | | Canines & Carnassials | Enrolled Before 6 Months | | Get A Quote |
 | Extra Fee | | Up to $75 | | | Due To Accident | | | Get A Quote | |
 | | Canines & Carnassials | | Canines & Carnassials | Enrolled Before 6 Months | | Get A Quote | |||
 | | Due To Accident | | Get A Quote | ||||||
 | Extra Fee | | Up to $150 | Extra Fee | Extra Fee | Due To Accident | Extra Fee | | Get A Quote |
Best Dental Insurance For Cats
Keep in mind: if your cat shows signs of a dental issue before your insurance kicks in—or during the waiting period—it might be labeled a pre-existing condition, which usually means it won’t be covered.
The providers listed below were chosen based purely on how well they handle dental care for cats. If you’re after broader coverage beyond just teeth and gums, you might want to explore a more comprehensive comparison in my full cat insurance roundup. All the information here is pulled straight from each insurer’s sample policy to keep things accurate and trustworthy.
Winner: Fetch Review
Fetch offers comprehensive dental coverage for cats as part of its standard policy—no add-on required. It stands out by covering all teeth, not just the commonly insured canines and carnassials. Conditions like gum disease, infected tooth pulp (endodontic issues), and extractions are all included, making it a strong choice for cat parents focused on dental health.
Dental Coverage
- All teeth covered — not limited to canines and carnassials
- Accidents included — covers broken teeth, trauma, and extractions
- Dental illnesses covered — including gum disease, endodontic disease, and stomatitis
- Extractions covered for both illness and injury
- Developmental abnormalities included
- 15-day waiting period for both illnesses and accidents
Pros
- Covers dental accidents & illnesses
- Full-mouth coverage — not just select teeth
- Extractions included for both injury and disease
- Gum disease & endodontic care covered
- No dental illness rider needed
- Vet exam fees & prescriptions covered without add-ons
- Wellness plan offers up to $125 for routine cleanings
Cons
- Annual dental exam required to maintain coverage
Runner-Up: Embrace Review
Embrace stands out with one of the most inclusive dental policies available. It covers both injuries and illnesses across your cat’s entire mouth—not just select teeth. Gum disease, extractions, and endodontic care are all included in the standard plan, no dental rider required. For added prevention, their optional wellness plan helps cover cleanings, dental checkups, and supplies like toothbrushes and chews.
Dental Coverage
- Full-mouth coverage—not limited to canines or carnassial teeth
- Protection for dental injuries, including fractured teeth, oral trauma, and necessary extractions
- Covers dental diseases such as gingivitis, stomatitis, and infections within the tooth
- Extractions covered when caused by illness or injury
- Includes congenital or developmental dental defects
- 14-day waiting period for dental conditions like gum disease
- 2-day waiting period for sudden dental injuries like a chipped or broken tooth
Pros
- Covers dental injuries and illnesses
- Full-mouth coverage (all teeth)
- Includes extractions for illness or trauma
- Covers stomatitis and endodontic issues
- No dental rider needed
- Wellness plan available for cleanings and dental supplies
Cons
- Vet exam fees not included without add-on
- Prescription meds require separate rider
- $1,000 annual cap on dental illness coverage
Third Place: Pets Best Review
Pets Best offers strong dental coverage, including treatment for periodontal disease, extractions, and dental trauma. Coverage applies to all teeth for gum disease, though endodontic procedures are only included for canines and carnassials. Their optional wellness plan can also reimburse up to $150 annually for routine cleanings.
Dental Coverage
- Periodontal disease coverage applies to all teeth
- Endodontic care included for key chewing teeth (canines and carnassials)
- Extractions covered whether caused by illness or injury
- Includes coverage for baby tooth removal, enamel defects, cysts, and impacted teeth—if enrolled before 6 months of age
- 14-day wait applies to dental conditions like gum disease
- 3-day wait for dental injuries such as fractured teeth
Pros
- Covers periodontal disease for all teeth
- Extractions covered for both illness and injury
- Covers congenital dental issues if enrolled before 6 months
- 14-day waiting period for dental illnesses
- 3-day waiting period for dental injuries
Cons
- Endodontic care limited to canines and carnassials
- Vet exam fees not included without add-on rider
How Do Other Pet Insurance Providers Stack Up?
The companies below didn’t top the list for dental coverage, but I’ve reviewed their sample policies to highlight what they offer. If you’re exploring these options, be sure to read the fine print—dental illness and procedure coverage can differ widely between plans.
Figo | Trupanion | Healthy Paws | Lemonade
Figo Review
Figo includes dental coverage in its core accident and illness plan, offering protection for both injuries and common dental diseases without needing an add-on. Coverage extends to conditions like gum disease, stomatitis, and endodontic issues. However, developmental dental abnormalities are not included.
Dental Coverage
- Full-mouth coverage—not limited to specific teeth
- Includes injuries like fractures, trauma, and extractions for damaged teeth
- Covers dental diseases such as gum issues, stomatitis, and internal tooth infections
- Tooth extractions due to illness are excluded
- 14-day wait for dental illness coverage
- 1-day wait for dental injury treatment
Pros
- Dental accidents and illnesses covered under base plan
- Includes coverage for gum disease, endodontic issues, and stomatitis
- Only 1-day waiting period for dental injuries
- Wellness plans offer $40 or $75 toward cleanings
Cons
- Extractions for illness are not covered
- Gum disease from tartar buildup excluded
- Vet exam fees require Powerup add-on
- No coverage for developmental dental issues
Trupanion Review
Trupanion offers solid dental coverage for non-routine care, including injuries, illnesses, and even developmental issues—if your cat is enrolled before six months of age. Tooth extractions are covered for all teeth, but illness-related treatment is limited to the canines and carnassials. To keep coverage active, your cat must have a dental exam at least once a year, and you must follow your vet’s recommended care. Trupanion doesn’t include preventive dental benefits, as it doesn’t offer a wellness plan.
Dental Coverage
- Non-routine dental treatment covered
- All teeth eligible for extractions
- Developmental abnormalities included with early enrollment
- Annual dental exam required for coverage to apply
- No optional wellness plan for routine dental cleanings
- Gum disease, endodontic issues, and stomatitis covered for canines/carnassials only
Pros
- Covers dental injuries and illnesses
- Includes developmental conditions (if enrolled before 6 months)
- No annual payout caps
- Prescription meds included in base plan
Cons
- Requires annual dental exams to maintain coverage
- No coverage for routine care like cleanings
- Limited illness coverage beyond canines and carnassials
Healthy Paws Review
Healthy Paws offers a straightforward accident and illness plan with no caps on payouts, but its dental coverage is fairly limited. Only dental injuries—like tooth fractures or trauma—are covered, and there’s no option to add illness-related dental care. Preventive cleanings, gum disease treatment, and exam fees are also excluded, making it less ideal for comprehensive dental needs.
Dental Coverage
- Covers dental trauma (fractures, oral injuries, extractions due to accidents)
- Excludes illnesses like gum disease and stomatitis
- No dental add-ons or wellness coverage available
- 15-day waiting period for dental accidents
Pros
- Unlimited lifetime payouts
- Covers extractions for dental injuries
Cons
- No coverage for dental diseases
- No wellness plan for routine dental care
- Vet exam fees not included
Lemonade Review
Lemonade offers a low-cost pet insurance option with quick, AI-powered claims and customizable coverage. Dental accidents like broken or injured teeth are included in the base plan, but illnesses such as gum disease or stomatitis require the Dental Illness add-on, which provides up to $1,000 annually. Their wellness plan also covers up to $150 for cleanings, making Lemonade a practical pick for cat owners seeking both preventive and emergency dental care.
Dental Coverage
- Accidents covered (fractures, trauma, extractions due to injury)
- Add-on required for dental diseases (e.g., gum disease, endodontic issues)
- $1,000 annual cap on dental illness with add-on
- Wellness plan covers $150 for teeth cleaning
- 14-day wait for illness (with add-on)
- 2-day wait for accidents
Pros
- $150 wellness benefit for dental cleanings
- Prescription meds included in base plan
Cons
- No illness coverage without dental add-on
- Illness-related extractions not covered
- Exam fees require a separate rider
- Developmental dental issues are excluded
What Are The Most Common Dental Issues For Cats?
Keeping your cat’s mouth healthy is key to their overall well-being. Many feline dental issues can be avoided with routine care—brushing their teeth with vet-approved toothpaste, scheduling regular checkups, appropriate dental chews, and staying on top of cleanings when recommended. Below are some of the most common dental diseases found in cats, along with symptoms, treatments, and risk factors to watch for.
Gingivitis (Early-Stage Gum Disease)
Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease, triggered by inflammation from bacterial plaque buildup. At this stage, the bones and ligaments holding the teeth are still unaffected.
In some cases, gingivitis can also be caused by underlying health issues such as:
- Feline leukemia virus (FeLV)
- Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)
- Feline calicivirus
- Diabetes mellitus
- Autoimmune disease
- Severe kidney disease
When linked to these conditions, gingivitis may occur alongside stomatitis, a painful inflammation or ulceration of the mouth.
The good news: With regular dental cleanings, gingivitis is reversible. But if ignored, it can progress into periodontitis, a more serious stage of gum disease.
Symptoms
- Swollen, tender gums
- Red or purplish gum tissue
- Bleeding gums (especially when touched)
- Persistent bad breath
Periodontitis (Advanced Gum Disease)
Periodontitis is a serious, irreversible condition that develops when gingivitis is left untreated. Over time, bacteria and inflammation weaken the tissue and bone structures that support your cat’s teeth, leading to permanent damage and tooth loss.
Cats fed dry kibble may have a slightly lower risk, as the texture helps remove some plaque during chewing. However, kibble alone isn’t enough to prevent this disease.
Symptoms
- Receding gums or visible tooth roots
- Loose or missing teeth
- Drooling, sometimes with blood
- Difficulty eating or chewing on one side
- Pawing at the mouth or signs of oral discomfort
- Swelling around the face or jaw
- Persistent bad breath
- Weight loss due to pain while eating
- Visible tartar buildup and inflamed gum tissue
These signs often appear gradually, so regular dental exams are key to catching the disease early—before it causes irreversible damage.
Treatment
- Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia
- Dental X-rays to assess jaw and bone health
- Tooth extractions, often required in advanced cases
- Home dental care plan, which may include:
- Daily tooth brushing
- Special dental diets
- Plaque-preventing gels
- Antibacterial oral rinses
Your vet will tailor a plan based on the severity of your cat’s condition and overall health.
Tooth Resorption
Tooth resorption occurs when a cat’s tooth begins to break down from the inside, gradually eroding toward the surface. It often appears as a small pinkish lesion near the gum line, but by the time it’s visible, the tooth is usually severely compromised.
This condition is not only painful but also incredibly common—affecting an estimated 30% to 70% of cats during their lifetime.
Symptoms
- Chattering or jaw trembling when eating or touched near the mouth
- Dropping food or chewing on one side of the mouth
- Refusing dry food or showing preference for soft food
- Pawing at the face or mouth
- Excessive drooling, sometimes tinged with blood
- Visible pink lesion at the gum line (often near premolars)
- Sudden aggression or hiding due to oral pain
- Weight loss or reduced appetite
Because many cats hide pain instinctively, these signs can be subtle. Routine dental exams are the best defense against letting this condition go unnoticed.
Treatment
- Pain management to keep your cat comfortable
- Monitoring and attempting to preserve tooth structure if damage is minimal
- Tooth extraction, which is often necessary once the tooth is significantly affected
Because tooth resorption is progressive and often hidden below the gum line, regular dental exams and X-rays are critical for early detection.
Endodontic Disease (Tooth Pulp Disease)
Endodontic disease occurs when the inner tissue of the tooth—known as the pulp—becomes inflamed or infected, often due to trauma or decay. Cats may suffer this after breaking a tooth or from untreated cavities that reach the pulp chamber.
Symptoms
- Tooth discoloration (grey, black, or pink)
- Swelling on the face or around the jaw
- Pain when chewing or eating
- Favoring one side of the mouth
- Avoiding hard food
Treatment
Extraction is typically recommended in cats, as root canals are rarely performed outside of specialty care. Prompt removal relieves pain and prevents infection from spreading to surrounding bone.
Feline Stomatitis (Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis or FCGS)
Feline stomatitis is a severe, painful inflammation of the mouth’s soft tissues. It’s thought to be immune-mediated, where the cat’s body overreacts to plaque on the teeth.
Symptoms
- Raw, red, inflamed gums and inner cheeks
- Intense pain while eating or grooming
- Bad breath
- Excessive drooling (often bloody)
- Weight loss or refusal to eat
Treatment
This condition often requires extensive dental work, including full or partial tooth extractions. In some cases, long-term immune therapy, antibiotics, or steroids may be used to manage flare-ups. Regular dental exams are critical for cats with chronic stomatitis.
Malocclusion (Misaligned Bite)
Malocclusion happens when a cat’s teeth don’t align properly, which can cause trauma to the gums, lips, or palate. It may be present from birth or develop due to injury.
Symptoms
- Visible crooked or overlapping teeth
- Difficulty closing the mouth
- Trauma or sores inside the mouth
- Food falling out while eating
Treatment
Mild cases may not need intervention, but severe malocclusions may require selective tooth extractions or orthodontic adjustment to prevent pain or soft tissue injury.
Enamel Hypoplasia (Defective Tooth Enamel)
Enamel hypoplasia is a developmental condition where the enamel layer is thin or missing, leaving teeth more vulnerable to decay, wear, and infection.
Symptoms
- Dull, rough, or yellowed teeth
- Pitting or grooves on the tooth surface
- Increased tartar and plaque buildup
- Early tooth decay or sensitivity
Treatment
While enamel can’t be restored, affected teeth may be smoothed or extracted, and regular cleanings help prevent secondary issues. A dental-friendly diet and oral rinses may be recommended.
Retained Baby Teeth (Persistent Deciduous Teeth)
Some cats fail to shed all of their baby teeth, leading to retained deciduous teeth. These extra teeth can cause overcrowding and misalignment.
Symptoms
- Double rows of teeth
- Overlapping or crowded adult teeth
- Bad breath
- Tartar buildup between tightly packed teeth
Treatment
Extraction of retained baby teeth is usually performed to prevent alignment issues and plaque buildup. If caught early, this is typically addressed around the time of spaying or neutering.
Oral Tumors
Oral tumors in cats can be benign or malignant and often go unnoticed until they cause visible swelling or interfere with eating.
Symptoms
- A lump or mass inside the mouth
- Facial swelling
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Drooling or bleeding from the mouth
- Loose teeth not associated with gum disease
Treatment
Diagnosis requires a biopsy. Treatment may include surgical removal, radiation, or palliative care, depending on the tumor type and stage. Early detection is critical, as some oral cancers—like squamous cell carcinoma—are aggressive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about pet dental insurance to help you understand coverage options and make the best choice for your cat.
Is dental insurance worth it for cats?
Yes, the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) estimates that up to 70% of cats develop some form of dental disease by age 3. Treatments like tooth extractions or advanced care for conditions like stomatitis can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. Dental coverage can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for both emergencies and chronic issues.
Does pet insurance cover routine dental cleanings for cats?
Most base policies don’t, but many providers offer optional wellness plans that reimburse for cleanings, checkups, and dental products like toothpaste and chews.
What dental issues are most common in cats?
Gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth resorption, stomatitis, and broken or fractured teeth are among the most frequently diagnosed conditions. Many of these cause pain but show few outward symptoms.
Are tooth extractions covered by pet insurance?
It depends. Most plans cover extractions caused by accidents, but not all cover extractions for dental disease unless you have dental illness coverage.
What’s the average cost of cat dental treatment without insurance?
A routine cleaning under anesthesia can cost $100–$2,000. Tooth extractions can range from $600 to over $2,000 depending on the number and complexity.
Are pre-existing dental conditions covered by insurance?
No. Any dental issue that existed before your policy started or during the waiting period is considered a pre-existing condition and won’t be covered.
How do I brush my cat’s teeth at home?
Think of the first brushing session as training—not a cleaning mission. Start by gently touching the outside of your cat’s mouth, then slowly work your way to placing the brush just inside the lip, brushing the outer surface of the teeth.
Keep sessions short, calm, and positive. If your cat is clicker-trained, use a click-and-treat. If not, reward with something they love—treats, pets, or praise.
If brushing feels like a battle, try the kid’s toothbrush trick. Grab a small brush with a suction-cup base, add a bit of cat-safe toothpaste or coconut oil, and let your cat investigate. Some will lick or chew the bristles on their own, turning dental care into playtime without the stress.
At what age should I start dental care for my cat?
Ideally, begin as a kitten—around 6 months of age—when your cat is more adaptable to brushing and handling. But it’s never too late to start incorporating dental care into your cat’s routine.
Can dental disease in cats affect other parts of the body?
Yes. Chronic dental infections can spread bacteria through the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. That’s why regular dental care is about more than just clean teeth.
What should I look for in a cat dental insurance plan?
Look for coverage that includes:
- All teeth (not just canines/carnassials)
- Dental illnesses like gingivitis and stomatitis
- Extractions from both illness and injury
- Short waiting periods and reasonable annual limits
- Optional wellness coverage for preventive care
Methodology
Finding the right dental insurance for cats isn’t just about cost—it’s about knowing your policy will actually help when tooth trouble strikes. Many plans exclude both routine and advanced dental treatments, which is why we dug deep to identify the best options for feline-specific dental care.
Here’s how we did it:
Policy Deep Dive (So You Don’t Have To)
We reviewed sample policies from 40+ U.S. pet insurance providers, combing through the fine print to see:
- Which plans cover dental illnesses like gum disease, stomatitis, and endodontic conditions
- Whether all teeth are covered, or just canines and carnassials
- Which policies include extractions for illness or injury, and how reimbursement works
- Deductibles, annual payout caps, and plan flexibility for different cat health needs
Real-World Cat Owner Data
- We ran thousands of quotes across a wide range of breeds, ages, and zip codes
- We analyzed hundreds of verified customer reviews to understand what actually happens when you file a dental claim
- We tracked recurring complaints and standout praise, especially around dental care exclusions, delays, or surprises
Hands-On Testing
- We tested the sign-up experience, looking for ease, transparency, and clarity on dental terms
- We contacted customer service teams to assess how well they explain feline dental coverage
- We even filed claims to evaluate how fast companies process reimbursements and handle real cases
- Where possible, we spoke directly with company representatives to stay up to date on evolving coverage options
Independent Rankings You Can Trust
We don’t accept payment or incentives for placement—every insurer earned their spot based on performance, transparency, and value for cat owners. Our reviews are unbiased, data-driven, and built around what actually matters to people caring for cats.
Insurance companies regularly reference our insights to improve their coverage—and that’s the point. Our mission is simple: give cat parents honest, expert-backed advice so they can choose coverage with confidence.
