Dental Care for Cats
Your Cat Relies on You for Protection
With advances in treating serious infectious and other pet diseases, oral health remains a critical area of care. Periodontal (gum) disease, caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar, is the number-one health issue in cats. It’s estimated that without proper dental care, 70% of cats will show signs of oral disease by age three. The good news? With your help, your cat can maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout their life.
What Your Cat Needs for Good Dental Health
- Chew Treats: Help reduce plaque and tartar buildup while stimulating gums.
- Regular Brushing at Home: A consistent routine helps prevent serious dental issues.
- Yearly Dental Checkups: Professional care is essential for a clean and healthy mouth.
Proper Diet: The Foundation of Good Dental Health
The food you feed your cat plays a significant role in their oral health. Dry food, rather than moist or canned food, helps clean teeth through its mild abrasive action, reducing the bacterial plaque that can harden into tartar.
- Dry food also promotes chewing, which exercises and stimulates the gums.
- Avoid giving your pet sweets or table scraps, as these can accelerate plaque and tartar buildup.
- For cats prone to dental issues due to their breed or genetics, special dry foods designed to reduce plaque and tartar may be recommended by your veterinarian.
Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth
Brushing your cat’s teeth is one of the most effective ways to maintain their oral health. Start a daily routine as soon as you bring your kitten home, but even older cats can learn to accept brushing with the right approach.
Follow these steps to make brushing a positive experience:
Step 1: Getting Comfortable
- Dip your finger in tuna water or warm water.
- Gently rub your finger over your cat’s gums and one or two teeth.
- Repeat until your cat feels relaxed and comfortable with this activity.
Step 2: Introducing Gauze
- Wrap your finger in gauze and use a gentle circular motion to scrub your cat’s teeth.
Step 3: Introducing a Toothbrush
- Use a baby toothbrush or a special pet toothbrush (or finger brush) designed for cats.
- Begin brushing gently, focusing on areas where tartar tends to accumulate.
Step 4: Adding Toothpaste
- Once your cat is used to brushing, introduce pet-safe toothpaste in liquid or paste form.
- Avoid using human toothpaste, as it can upset your cat’s stomach.
- Your veterinarian may recommend additional antiseptic sprays or rinses to complement brushing.
Don’t Forget the Yearly Dental Checkup
While regular brushing and a proper diet help maintain oral health, annual dental checkups are essential. A veterinarian will perform a thorough oral examination to identify any underlying issues, including tartar buildup or gum disease.
- If tartar is present, your vet will perform a professional cleaning and polishing under anesthesia to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gum line.
- After cleaning, your veterinarian may apply fluoride and provide follow-up care instructions to maintain dental health at home.
Tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums
- Use chew treats to reduce plaque and stimulate gums.
- Prevent your cat from chewing on hard objects like stones, which can cause tooth fractures, gum damage, and infections.
A Few Statistics:
- Kittens develop their first 26 milk teeth at 2–3 weeks of age, with their 30 permanent teeth erupting around 3 months.
- Cats have fewer teeth than any other common domestic mammal.
- By comparison, puppies develop their 28 deciduous teeth at 2 weeks and their 42 permanent teeth by 3 months.
With proper care, your cat can enjoy a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. A combination of balanced nutrition, regular brushing, professional checkups, and dental treats ensures they stay comfortable, happy, and free from painful dental problems. Let’s work together to keep those purrs healthy and bright!
