01/14/2026
Pictured is veterinary assistant Linda’s cat Monty’s dental x-rays from April, where they found out he had FORL in one of his teeth (see arrow). 🦷
Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions (FORLs) or 'resorptive lesions’: These are a common dental condition in cats - more than 50% of cats will develop FORL in their lifetime. Often starting at or below the gum line, this condition causes the resorption of the protective enamel, then the sensitive dentin of the teeth. Once the crown is affected, a painful pink lesion may be visible on the tooth, and the pet is at risk of bacterial infection. If left untreated, the condition will continue to spread until all the crown and root are affected, and the tooth will eventually fall out.
Currently, the cause is unknown, but possible theories include auto-immune condition, infection with calicivirus, periodontal disease, and calcium dysregulation.
We check cats at all their exams for signs of resorptive lesions, but the best way to find them is with a dental x-ray. Affected teeth are removed, and cats will be monitored carefully for signs of future lesions.
