Cats have a naturally playful spirit that brings us loads of daily joy. As a cat mom or dad, your goal is to keep your furry friend healthy and happy to continue expressing themselves. While you may take great care to ensure your cat is well-fed and groomed, dental care is one overlooked part of feline health.
In this step-by-step guide, the HICC PET™ team will explore the importance of cat dental care, recognizing signs of dental problems, and the best ways to keep your cat’s teeth strong, healthy, and pearly white.
Why Is Cat Dental Care Important?
Cats, like humans, need proper dental care to maintain good overall health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to various health problems, including bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. Unfortunately, many owners neglect dental care for cats.
When plaque and tartar buildup on a cat’s teeth, it can cause inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease. Severe periodontitis in cats results in tooth loss, dental problems, kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, and other health complications like pain and discomfort.
Signs of Dental Problems in Cats
It’s essential to be aware of the signs of dental problems in cats so that you can address them early on. Common symptoms of dental problems include:
- Bad breath.
- Swollen or bleeding gums.
- Loose or missing teeth.
- Drooling.
- Difficulty eating or drinking.
- Discolored saliva.
Taking your cat’s dental health seriously could be the difference between life or death with your furry best friend. Take immediate action if you notice any of these symptoms in your cat.
The Dangers of Plaque and Tartar in Your Cat’s Mouth
Plaque and tartar are two of the biggest culprits for cat dental problems. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on the teeth and contains bacteria that can cause tooth decay, yellowing, and gum disease.
Without regular brushing, plaque hardens into tartar. Tarter is a hard calcified deposit that professional dental cleaning can only remove. Over time, tartar can cause significant damage to a cat’s teeth and gums, leading to pain, infection, and tooth loss.
Cat Dental Cleaning Methods – Brushing, Oral Sprays, Dental Chews, and Professional Cleaning
Regarding dental care for cats, one size does not fit all. There are several ways to get your cat’s teeth healthy without sacrificing time or money. If your cat suffers from bad breath or shows signs of poor oral health, there are different mouth care strategies to try. Prevent plaque and tartar buildup with these cat dental care products.
Toothbrush for Cats
Several cat teeth cleaning methods help keep your cat’s teeth healthy and shiny. One of the most effective methods is brushing your cat’s teeth. While this may sound daunting, it’s pretty simple with the right tools and technique. You’ll need a specially designed cat toothbrush and toothpaste.
Cats are naturally skittish, and the toothbrush bristles might feel like an uncomfortable sensation for them. Get your cat accustomed to brushing by slowly exposing the toothbrush to them, allowing them to feel the strands near their face and mouth. Massage and rub your cat gently to soothe them while doing this. Caring for your cat’s teeth gets easier with enough time and patience.
