Those sharp teeth in your cat's mouth can have dental problems just like humans. A mixture of saliva and bacteria called plaque forms on your cat's teeth daily. If you don't remove it, the bacteria grow and turn into calculus, causing gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums. If the gingivitis is not treated, it can spread to the bone around your cat's teeth. Eventually, without the bone support, the teeth will fall out. With the proper care, both at home and at the vet's office, your feline friend can enjoy good dental health.
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Regular Brushing
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Your cat needs a good brushing just like you do. Brush at least twice a week, using a special cat toothbrush that fits over your index finger and makes the job easier. Use a toothpaste especially for animals, as the cat will swallow some of it, and human toothpaste can cause upset stomachs in cats. You can find cat toothpaste in several different flavors, including fish. If you cat isn't accustomed to getting his teeth brushed, he will probably put up a fight the first few times. Get him used to the idea by only brushing one or two teeth at first. Rub the toothbrush gently over the tooth in a circular pattern. Give special emphasis to the areas close to the gums. You don't need to brush the back of the teeth, but do spend a few moments massaging the gums. End the session with a hug and a special treat. When you have a new kitten, start the process as early as possible by holding your kitten and gently examining his teeth.
Other Home Care
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Some cats will not tolerate brushing. Look at the pet store for sprays, gels and oral rinses. You can also give your cat tartar-control treats available at the pet store. Look for chew toys that are have an abrasive texture and are flavored with chicken or fish. These toys can help get rid of food debris and plaque around the teeth. Some cats need a special diet to slow down the build-up of plaque. Talk to your dentist about this possibility. Examine your cat's mouth regularly. Bad breath, a crusty gum line and pain or bleeding when eating are all signs of dental disease.
Vet Care
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Visit the veterinarian a couple of times a year for a thorough dental check-up. He will examine your cat's teeth for any warning signs of dental disease, including gingivitis and fractured or abscessed teeth. Get a professional cleaning at least once a year. The vet will need to anesthetize your cat to do a proper cleaning. Once the cat is asleep, he will take X-rays of the teeth to see if the bone structure is healthy. He will rinse your cat's mouth with a special solution to kill bacteria. Finally, he will scale the cat's teeth by using special instruments to remove calculus above and below the gum line. He will finish the cleaning by polishing your cat's teeth.
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