Cat tooth issues without signs of distress?

Question

I'm taking care of my parents' cat for a while. I took her (11-year-old Siamese) in for a check-up at the vet today.

They're telling me she needs something like $900 in tooth surgery--that her teeth are in poor condition and that one or two may even need to be extracted and that she's clearly "in a lot of pain."

The thing is, I've never ever seen the cat refuse to eat--she still gladly chows down on her wet and dry food--and exude any signs of pain whatsoever (pawing at her mouth, cry out when you touch her teeth, etc.).

Is it possible that she needs to get some teeth extracted even though she hasn't showed any kind of sign that she's in pain at all?

Is it possible that this vet could be duping me? Should I go in for a second opinion somewhere else?

Thanks!

Answer 1

Get a 2nd opinion if you want, or at least another bill estimate.  However, the Siamese cat breed is one where tooth problems/decay are a big issue.  It's likely she needs the dental work.  Teeth needing to be extracted should be extracted so that  your parent's cat doesn't end up getting seriously harmed by infections through her bloodstream(heart damage, kidney, etc.)  As they other person said, cats and other animals often mask their pain out of instinct, to seem less vulnerable.  She may be sleeping extra and not as playful as she would be, if she had no mouth problems, for example.

After she gets her bad teeth removed and the others professionally cleaned, you should start using enzymatic toothpaste that can be purchased through your vet.  Always use toothpaste intended for animals.  The stuff for humans is toxic to cats.  Chicken flavor is the preferred one for my 3 Siamese.

Answer 2

Get a second opinion just in case, but tooth problems can lead to many other organ problems. It can be a serious issue.

Sounds fishy though considering the cat is still eating. Second opinion!

Answer 3

Cats are notorious for not showing obvious signs of pain.  Remember, in the wild, the weak or ill are killed.  

It doesn't hurt to get a second opinion before spending that kind of money, but don't be surprised when you get the same diagnosis.