Keep Your Cats Teeth Clean: Expert Tips for Optimal Dental Health

Our beloved cats may suffer from smelly breath, gum disease, or other dental issues if their oral hygiene is not taken care of properly. Studies show that 50–90% of cats that are four years of age and older have some form of dental disease. Dental diseases in cats are treatable and preventable with proper dental care. This makes it the responsibility of every cat parent to take good care of the kitty’s teeth.

In this blog, we'll look at the causes and signs of dental problems and tips for keeping your kitten's teeth healthy.

What Causes Dental Issues in Cats?

Dental issues in cats are usually caused by plaque buildup, tartar formation, a poor diet, and a lack of dental care. In addition, infections in the oral cavity can also be caused by injuries or strange objects stuck between the teeth. Regular dental checkups and proper oral hygiene can greatly reduce these dental issues and ensure your cat's overall well-being.

Signs Your Cat Has Dental Issues

It is important to recognise the signs of dental issues in cats by close examination of their teeth. Pet parents should look for the following signs of dental issues in cats to identify any early signs of dental diseases:

• Bad breathe

• Difficulty eating
• Excessive drooling
• Visible tartar
• Swelling of the face
• Bleeding

How to Take Care of Your Cat’s Dental Health

Maintaining a healthy dental care routine for your cat is important. Here are some effective ways to take care of your cat’s dental health:

Brushing your cat’s teeth:

Brushing your cat's teeth daily helps in the prevention of dental diseases. However, it is important to familiarise your cat with the toothpaste and brush first.

Here are some tips to do so:

• Avoid using human toothpaste.
• Keep the brush and toothpaste near your cat to observe and familiarise them with them.
• Apply toothpaste to your finger for scent and familiarity.
• Gently clean mouth, upper and lower teeth, and tongue with the toothpaste to remove plaque.

Working on your cat’s bad breath:

If your cat is suffering from bad breath, consider the following tips to prevent further dental problems caused by it:

• Feed dry kibble food as it helps scrape off plaque from the cat’s teeth as it chews.
• Clean your cat’s teeth and tongue regularly.

• Consider having professional teeth cleaned once a year by your vet.

Annual checkups: 

Annual examinations are necessary for your cat's good dental health. If your cat is suffering from any dental issues, it can be detected early. Your vet will thoroughly examine your cat’s teeth and offer the best solutions for them.

Dental toys & treats:   

Dental chew toys are a good option because they help clean the teeth and massage the gums. Let your cat spend about 30 minutes gnawing on dental toys for effective cleaning. You can also consider fabric toys covered with mesh, as they aid in cleaning the teeth while playing. Dental treats and biscuits also help in controlling plaque buildup and tartar formation. Such cat dental treats are available in a variety of options and can also be used to reward your cat.

Dental cleaning for cats with lost or no teeth:

Taking care of the oral hygiene of elderly cats However, infections can still occur. To maintain healthy gums, clean the gum pockets regularly. Consulting the veterinarian is recommended.

Conclusion

The dental care of our feline companion is vital for their overall well-being. Understanding the common issues and signs of dental problems and maintaining a proper dental care routine are the responsibilities of cat parents. Regularly brushing their teeth, scheduling annual checkups, a diet that promotes good dental health and dental treats are all crucial for a cat’s dental hygiene. Prioritizing your cat's oral health can ensure a happy life!