If she has tartar and plaque on her teeth, it hurts to eat! Syringing food and antibiotics will help in the short term, but I am really surprised the vet did not suggest a dental cleaning. It's expensive too...but not like the other surgery.

There is a liquid you can put in cats' drinking water that helps remove plaque...it's not a cure, but might help in the short term. Ask your vet about it.

HUGS and good luck with your babies!