INFLUENCE OF VITAMIN D ON TOOTH RESORPTION IN CATS

Abstract

Feline tooth resorption (Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions, FORL) is one of the most common dental disorders in domestic cats, characterized by the progressive destruction of hard dental tissues. Although the exact etiology remains unclear, recent research has suggested a potential role of vitamin D in regulating mineral metabolism and bone resorption. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum 25(OH)D concentration and the prevalence of FORL in domestic cats. Eighteen adult cats were examined clinically, underwent dental radiography, and had serum 25(OH)D levels measured. Cats with multiple tooth lesions showed a trend toward lower vitamin D concentrations. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between serum 25(OH)D levels and the number of affected teeth (r = –0.57; p = 0.014). The findings suggest that vitamin D deficiency may be a potential risk factor for the development of FORL. These results highlight the importance of assessing vitamin D status in feline dental disorders and open new perspectives for developing preventive and therapeutic strategies to reduce FORL prevalence.