7 Tips To Keep Your Cat’s Teeth Healthy

February is Pet Dental Month and as always, I share what you need to know about cats and their teeth like: Timely must-read Dental Advice About Cats

Smile and Show The Love: National Pet Dental Month or Prevent Feline Pain: Pet Dental Month

Bonus: Scroll down for NEW funny, feline dental poems.

I’m writing this while dreading seeing my dentist today. I have a wonderful dentist that I love but I still hate going. It got me thinking about responsibility. The responsibility to take care of my own health care but also the responsibility to care for my cat’s health.

No matter how you feel about dentists, your pets rely on you to take them to the vet. Adult cats have 30 teeth but by the time they are seniors, most cats have either lost teeth naturally or by extraction. The only thing worse is having a mouth full of rotting teeth is the very painful feline resorptive lesions.

Humans need annual dental check-ups at the very least. Most cats need an annual check up as well. A dental checkup is included. If a dental cleaning or extractions is needed another appointment will be needed. Older cats normally need to see the vet twice yearly.

I’ve said this before from personal experience PREVENTIVE IS BEST AND LESS COSTLY DOWN THE ROAD!

Feline dental care is essential for maintaining your cat’s overall health and well-being.

 

Regular dental cleanings and daily at-home care can help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other serious health issues. Vet 101: Feline Heart Murmurs and Dental Cleaning

 

1. Brush your cat’s teeth daily – Brushing your cat’s teeth is the best way to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. Start by getting your cat used to having their mouth and teeth touched by gently massaging their gums and teeth with a finger. Then, use a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for cats and a pet-safe toothpaste. Do not use human toothpaste, as it can be harmful to your cat.

2. Provide dental chews and toys – Dental chews and toys can help remove plaque and massage your cat’s gums. Look for products that are specifically designed for dental health and made from safe, non-toxic materials.

3. Offer a balanced diet – A balanced diet can help maintain your cat’s dental health by promoting healthy teeth and gums. (Big cats in the wild, don’t get dental caries.) Look for cat food that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, and avoid giving your cat foods that are high in sugar. Consider feeding raw food or at the very least not dry kibble.

4. Regular veterinary checkups – Regular veterinary checkups are important to detect and treat dental problems early on. Your veterinarian can check your cat’s teeth and gums, clean their teeth if necessary, and recommend a preventive plan.

5. Avoid giving your cat hard or crunchy treats – Hard crunchy treats can actually harm your cat’s teeth by causing chips and cracks. Dental treats are carbohydrates that leave a starchy residue on teeth.

6. Provide plenty of water – Staying hydrated is important for overall health, including dental health. Encourage your cat to drink more water by providing multiple water sources and using a fountain.

7. Be aware of changes in behavior – Changes in your cat’s behavior, such as a decreased appetite, drooling, or difficulty chewing, can indicate dental problems. If you notice any changes, take your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

In conclusion, keeping your cat’s teeth and gums healthy is essential for their overall health and well-being. Brushing your cat’s teeth, providing dental chews and toys, offering a balanced diet, having regular veterinary checkups, avoiding hard treats, providing plenty of water, and being aware of changes in behavior are all important steps in maintaining your cat’s dental health. If you have any questions or concerns about your cat’s dental health, be sure to talk to your veterinarian.

Now for something less serious. How about some feline dental poems? I’m no poet but I hope these make you smile.

A Feline Ode to Dental Care

 

Cats with purrs so soft and sweet, need dental care, both large and neat.

A daily routine should be in place,

To keep their teeth, healthy and bright with grace.

Brush with care, each fang and tooth,

This will keep their smile, proof of truth. A diet rich in nutrients and care,

Will keep their breath, smelling fair.

But don’t forget to see the vet,

For a deep cleaning, you won’t regret.

A yearly visit, will do no harm,

And keep those teeth, shining with charm.

So let’s take care of our feline friends,

With dental care that never ends.

For a happy cat, with a healthy smile is worth more than gold, all the while.

A Feline Win

A feline with teeth that were thin

Needed a trip to the vet, ’twas a win

For a healthy cat’s smile

Dental care is worthwhile

Now he purrs and bites with a grin

 

Okay, one more to drive the message home.

Cat Dental Limerick

There was a cat who loved to eat fish,

But its breath was enough to make any wish,

It went to the vet,

For a dental exam, I bet,

And now it’s fresh breath, a true gourmet dish!

The vet said “No cavities here,

Your teeth are all strong, my dear.” The cat smiled wide,

And purred with pride,

And said “I brush every night, it’s clear!

So, how are your cats’ teeth?

Need more info? Check out Pet Dental Month at the American Veterinary Medical Association.