You already know that you should take your cat to the vet for wellness exams, feed them healthy food, groom them, and give them regular nail trims, but did you know that you should brush their teeth? Brushing your cat’s teeth is recommended as part of a regular dental care routine. Just like with humans, dental hygiene is important for cats to prevent problems such as plaque and tartar buildup, gum disease, gingivitis, and tooth decay.
Here are some tips for brushing your cat's teeth:
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a finger brush designed for cats. These will be gentle on your cat's gums and teeth.
Use a toothpaste that is formulated specifically for cats, which come in flavors like poultry or seafood that cats enjoy. Never use human toothpaste as it may be harmful to cats if ingested.
Introduce your cat to the toothbrush and toothpaste gradually, allowing them to smell and taste it before attempting to brush their teeth. To start, put a small amount of cat toothpaste on your finger and let them lick it off. This will get your cat used to the taste.
Once your cat is used to eating the toothpaste - after a week or two - start sliding your finger, covered with toothpaste, between your cat’s upper lip and upper teeth and rub the outer surface of the teeth once a day.
After another week or two, you can introduce a toothbrush. Every day, put a small amount of toothpaste on a toothbrush and allow your cat to lick it. Now they will get used to the bristles and the feel of the brush in their mouth.
After your cat is used to the toothbrush, you can start brushing their teeth! Focus on the canines and teeth in the back of the mouth. Concentrate on brushing the outer surfaces of your cat's teeth, as these are the areas most prone to plaque and tartar buildup.
Start by brushing for short intervals and gradually increase the duration as your cat becomes more comfortable with the process. Aim for 5-10 seconds on each side of their mouth.
Reward your cat with praise or treats after each brushing session to reinforce positive behavior.
Schedule regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your cat's oral health and address any dental issues early on.
Brushing your cat's teeth will take time and patience, but it will also contribute to their overall health and well-being and prevent expensive dental procedures in the future. And that’s something to smile about!
Love, Nala
