Feline Dental Health
Taking care of our pets' dental health can be quite a challenge, and it’s easy to overlook it. However, research indicates that between 40% -60% of cats show signs of dental issues by the time they reach FOUR years old! The good news is that these problems can be prevented and even reversed! To tackle this, we need to understand how dental decay develops. It starts with plaque buildup on the teeth, which can lead to gingivitis—this is when the gums become red, swollen, and may bleed. If not addressed, it can progress to periodontitis, where the infection affects the deeper structures supporting the teeth, leading to bone loss. In more advanced cases, dental decay can result in cavities, tooth abscesses, and ultimately tooth loss. Keep an eye out for signs of dental issues, such as bad breath, trouble eating, and excessive drooling.
Follow this four-week training program to get your cat comfortable with daily/weekly brushing.
You will need:
A cat toothbrush (or finger toothbrush!)
Feline toothpaste (human toothpaste is not safe for cats- Try out the Virbac C.E.T Enzymatic Toothpaste! )
Rewards (Try Fussie Cat Puree Treats!)
Week 1:
Let your cat become familiar with the smell of the toothpaste. Leave the brush and toothpaste out where the cat can inspect them. Every day, put a dab on your finger, and let him or her smell and lick it. If your cat is shy about tasting it, put a tiny dab near his or her mouth so he or she can lick it off. Give a reward when your cat licks the toothpaste so he or she associates the toothpaste with an enjoyable experience.
Week 2:
Get your cat used to the taste of the toothpaste. Apply a dab of toothpaste to one of his or her canine teeth every day, followed by a reward.
Week 3:
Get your cat used to the toothbrush. Put a small amount of toothpaste on the brush and let him or her lick it off. If he or she is shy about licking it, apply a dab near the mouth. Follow with a reward.
Week 4:
Gently stretch your cat's lips far enough to insert the brush gently between the lips and gums. Place the bristles at a 45 degree angle to the teeth, aiming for the narrow crevice between teeth and gums. Brush around gently, and work around the upper and lower teeth. It’s only necessary to brush the outside surfaces, as the cat’s own tongue cleans the inside surfaces well.
Here are some resources for you to check out for more info!
https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/mouth/gum-disease-in-cats
https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/mouth/gum-disease-in-cats
