As they age, most cats will experience dental problems, ranging from broken teeth and inflamed gums to periodontal disease and cavities. An examination by your veterinarian is the only sure-fire way to know if your cat has dental issues. There are, however, things that cat owners can do to help care for their cat's teeth.
Things You'll Need
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Dental rinse
- Canned/dry cat food
- Sisal rope ball
- Treats
Instructions
Schedule an exam and take your cat to the vet for an annual checkup. Teeth-related problems can be detected, including broken or missing teeth, decay or halitosis.
Examine its teeth. In addition to regular checkups with the vet, you can examine your feline's teeth yourself. Pull your cat's lip back tenderly and check for yellow or brown buildup, damaged teeth or irritated gums.
Purchase a toothbrush and toothpaste at any pet store or online and start brushing your cat's teeth while he is still a kitten, although older cats can adjust to the daily routine.
Reduce tartar. To help with your cat's dental care, feed it a diet of hard and canned food. Crunchy treats and toys, such as a sisal rope ball, will help eliminate plaque and tartar. When tartar begins accumulating, you may notice irritation, inflammation or bleeding along the gum line.
Attempt to rinse. If you are feeling up to the challenge, you may want to rinse your cat's mouth. This is recommended for senior cats with preexisting dental problems. Rinsing should not be a substitute for brushing.
Contact your vet if you notice any changes in your cat's teeth or gums.