The best defence against dental problems is preventing them from starting in the first place with daily at home oral care.
A beginner's guide to avoiding dental disease in cats.
Posted by PetDirect on 11th Aug 2022
Good oral care is essential to a cat's overall health. Without it, bacteria can multiply and form plaque which is a soft, clear or yellow film of bacteria that can be removed by brushing your cat's teeth. If plaque sits on the teeth too long, it hardens to create tartar. Tartar is usually darker in colour, and will need to be removed by your vet. Plaque and tartar can trigger gingivitis and eventually periodontal disease, a painful condition that can have serious impacts on a cat's behaviour and health.
Spotting the signs of gum disease in cats
Cats are stoic animals and they hide pain well, therefore it is your responsibility to spot the signs of gum disease. Start by providing a weekly check-up of your cat’s teeth and gums, and be aware of the following signs:
- Bad breath – if your cat has bad breath, this is not normal and can be a sign of an underlying gum issue.
- Bleeding gums – If you notice your cat’s gums bleeding when he chews, or your cat has red gums around the teeth.
- Behaviour – another sign of gum disease can be a change in your cat’s behaviour, particularly if you notice that they are less lively or less willing to play.
Other behaviours to watch out for:
- excessive drooling.
- pawing at the mouth.
- difficulty picking up food.
- chewing on only one side of the mouth.
- chattering teeth while eating.
- vocalizing while eating or yawning.
- aversion to the head or face being touched.
If you spot any of these signs, be sure to seek veterinary treatment for your cat straight away.
Prevention
Establishing an oral care routine for your cat is the most important way to keep their teeth and mouths clean and healthy and protect them from serious dental issues. Ideally start as a kitten, but even if your cat is older, you should still begin daily dental care. Have their mouth checked first to be sure all is well before starting.
1. Schedule regular check ups with your cat’s vet
Make sure your cat gets an oral health examination by a veterinary professional at least once a year.
2. Tooth brushing
Daily tooth brushing is the very best way to care for your cat’s teeth and gums. Top tip: remember to introduce tooth brushing gradually and follow our step by step guide. Make sure you use a cat specific toothpaste as human toothpaste cannot be used to clean your cat's teeth. Start by getting your cat used to the toothpaste by letting them lick it off your finger before gently rubbing the toothpaste over your cats teeth and gums, once they are comfortable with this you can slowly move up to a fingerbrush or toothbrush
3. Diet
Dry cat food can help to clean the teeth as it has an abrasive texture that wipes the surface of the tooth as the dog eats. Specific dental care food is also available.
4. Dental Treats
Dental treats help to reduce plaque and tartar build up and promote oral health. There is a range available in different shapes and flavours, so there will be something that every cat will enjoy.
5. Dental Toys
Your cat might also enjoy chewing on a dental toy. Dental toys can either be made from rubber to massage gums or mesh to give a flossing effect.
6. Suppliements & Water Addictives
Dental Supplements and Water Additives can also be incorporated into your cat's dental health routine. Supplements can be added to their food or simply squeezed or sprayed into the mouth or on a paw to be licked off. There are also options that can be added to their water.
Ensure any dental products and routines that are introduced to your cat are done slowly and with lot’s of positive reinforcement like pats, praise and treats.
If you have any questions about keeping your cat's oral health in great condition, don't hesitate to reach out to one of Pet Direct's Customer Service Experts on 0800 200 240.