Temporomandibular disorder in cats affects their ability to chew, bite, and eat. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex cat anatomy component. TMJ facilitates essential functions in cats, such as chewing, vocalizing, and grooming. The TMJ disorder affects jaw joints directly.

Therefore, there is a need to understand the temporomandibular joint disorder, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and preventive measurements. Before understanding TMJ disorder, you must explore a cat’s temporomandibular joint anatomy.

Cat’s Temporomandibular Joint Anatomy

Temporomandibular is a hinge-like joint. It connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull's temporal bone. This TMJ allows the cat’s mouth to open & close and also enables complex movements necessary while biting and chewing. A Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) has several components, including;

1: Mandibular Condyle

The mandibular Condyle is the rounded end of the mandible that fits into the mandibular fossa.

2: Mandibular Fossa

The mandibular Fossa is a shallow sock in the temporal bone that holds the rounded end of the lower jaw and allows for smooth jaw movement. 

3: Articular Disc

It is a fibrocartilaginous structure. An articular disc supports the joint and allows for smooth movement.

4: Joint Capsule and Ligaments

The joint capsule and ligaments are connective tissues. These tissues ensure stability and controlled jaw movement.

Types of Cat’s Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Here are a few types or categories of temporomandibular joint disorder in cats;

1: Luxation/Dislocation

Luxation occurs when the mandibular condyle is displaced or dislocated from its normal position in the mandibular fossa. It mainly occurs due to trauma. A cat with TMJ luxation can not close the mouth completely due to mandibular drift, causing misaligned teeth. 

2: Ankylosis

Ankylosis, also characterized by joint fusion, reduces cat mobility. Ankylosis can be intra-articular or extra-articular. Temporomandibular joint ankylosis is a rare disease in cats affecting mandible movement. 

3: Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis leads to degenerative changes in the cat’s joints, causing pain and stiffness. This condition is painful and debilitating in cats. 

4: Neoplasia

Neoplasia is a tumor that affects the TMJ or surrounding structures. The most common neoplastic diseases affecting the TMJ are Osteosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, and osteoma.