Cat Dental Care

Dental disease is common in pet cats. Cat owners can prevent cat dental disease by taking care of their cats’ teeth. Dental care for cats includes brushing the cat’s teeth, examining the teeth regularly, veterinary dental care, and providing healthy food that does not encourage dental disease in cats.

Many cat owners are unaware of how to care for their cats’ teeth. Brushing a cat’s teeth every day can greatly reduce the cat’s risk of dental disease. A soft, child’s toothbrush can be used if the cat will tolerate it. Cat owners should get kittens used to having their teeth brushed. If the cat has not been introduced to teeth-brushing as a kitten, the cat may not allow the cat owner to use a brush. However, some cats that resist the use of toothbrushes will allow the cat owners to wipe the teeth with a cloth or gauze. After several cleanings with gauze, the cat may start to allow the use of a toothbrush.

Cat toothpaste can be purchased in pet stores or online pet supply companies. The cat owner should put a small amount of cat toothpaste on the gauze or toothbrush. When gently rubbing the cat’s teeth, the cat owner should make sure that the area of the teeth against the gums are clean.
Some people think that certain cat foods are better for dental health. Dry cat food is considered healthier for the cat’s teeth. But, there are other concerns about dry cat food such as the lack of moisture which can lead to dehydration. Some cat foods and cat treats are designed to improve the dental health of cats.

The cat owner should make a habit of checking the cat’s mouth and teeth for any signs of problems. Broken teeth or gum injuries should be addressed by a veterinarian. The color of the teeth shows signs of how well the teeth are being cared for. Yellow material on the teeth is plaque. Darker yellow or brownish discolorations are tartar. Some plaque may be able to be removed with brushing, but the cat may need cat dental care at the veterinary office.