Welcome to our discussion on the topic of how to brush cat teeth. Have you ever noticed that your cat’s breath resembles the aroma of a deserted fish market? Well, fear not, as we’re here to guide you on how to maintain your pet’s oral hygiene and keep their teeth and gums in top-notch condition.
Taking care of your cat’s dental health goes beyond eliminating unpleasant odors; it can also prevent periodontal disease and various other health issues. By learning the proper technique to brush your cat’s teeth, you can proactively safeguard their well-being and nip potential problems in the bud. So, let’s delve into the world of feline dental care together!
Why is it Important to Brush Cat Teeth
Have you ever thought about how crucial it is to brush your cat’s teeth? Well, imagine if you only brushed your own teeth for part of the year! That’s exactly what it feels like for our feline friends. Just like us, cats also experience the buildup of plaque, which eventually hardens into stubborn tartar. And that’s not all – there are even more dental dangers lurking beneath the gum line. Let’s delve into some key terms that highlight the significance of brushing your cat’s teeth.
- Plaque: This is the sticky film that can accumulate on your cat’s teeth, similar to what you find on your own pearly whites
- Tartar: Over time, plaque hardens and transforms into a brown, crusty substance on your cat’s teeth. This is known as tartar and can cause various oral health problems
- Periodontal Disease: When gums become infected and start to deteriorate, it leads to a serious condition called periodontal disease. This can even affect the jawbone
We understand your schedule is packed, and finding time for dental care can be challenging. However, the good news is that brushing your cat’s teeth doesn’t have to be a lengthy process. It only takes around 30 seconds a day! The more often you do it, the easier and more cost-effective it becomes to maintain your cat’s dental health in the long term. So let’s get started and give your cat the dazzling smile they deserve!
How To Brush Cat Teeth
1. Familiarize Your Cat With Mouth Handling
- Approach your cat calmly and show affectionate touches
- Give your cat treats as positive reinforcement
- Start gently touching and manipulating your cat’s mouth
- If your cat responds well and allows you to manipulate her mouth, reward her immediately
- If your cat resists, stop and try again later
2. Gradually Introduce Teeth Manipulation
- Progress from moving her lips with your fingers to running your fingers along her teeth and gums
- Once your cat is comfortable, use a moist, soft gauze sponge around your finger to clean her teeth
- Take your time and be patient. It may take multiple sessions to reach this point
- Reward your cat throughout the process and stop if she resists. Resume the next day
3. Incorporate Toothpaste
- When your cat is comfortable with the gauze sponge, add veterinary toothpaste or gel to it
- Continue using praise and rewards to make the experience enjoyable for your cat
4. Introduce The Toothbrush
- Bring out a toothbrush that is easy for you to handle
- Touch the toothbrush to your cat’s face and gently work it around her lips
- If your cat likes the flavor of the toothpaste, let her lick it off the toothbrush
- Always keep in mind to reward your cat with treats
5. Start Brushing
- Use a motion that is circular and keep focus on brushing along your cat’s gum line
- Initially, focus on the outer surfaces of her teeth, under her lips
- Gradually work your way up to brushing all of your cat’s teeth
- Aim to spend about 2-3 minutes brushing her entire mouth once a day
Is it ok to Use Human Toothpaste on Cat’s Teeth?
Nope. Toothpaste made for humans has substances that shouldn’t be ingested. If your cat swallows it, it can lead to an upset tummy or digestive issues. Certain human toothpaste has excessive amounts of sodium that could potentially harm your beloved pet.
Final Words: How to Brush Cat Teeth?
Brushing your cat’s teeth is crucial for their oral health. In addition to regular brushing, dental products such as specialized diets, chews, treats, and water additives can offer some oral benefits. However, nothing compares to the effectiveness of brushing in maintaining your cat’s dental hygiene.
