We bet your cat has it all. A well-balanced diet, a nice tall climbing tower, toys, treats, and lots of love. So what do you get the cat that has everything? Top-notch cat dental care is always the gift that keeps on giving. Taking care of all 30 of your cat’s teeth goes a long way in helping them live a long and happy life.
Why Do Cats Need Dental Care?
Oral health is an essential part of bodily health. Decaying teeth and gum diseases can cause a long list of problems for cats and humans alike.
Tooth decay causes severe pain and makes eating difficult, leading to a grumpy, hungry friend who might lash out. And infections like gum disease can affect the whole body if the infection spreads.
But since cats are so good at hiding their pain, dental problems can quickly grow worse. Yearly dental exams are crucial in preventing problems like tooth loss and tooth resorption.
Symptoms of Tooth Decay in Cats
Senior cats have a higher risk of dental disease and infection, but no matter how old your cat is, understanding the symptoms of tooth decay is important.
- Bad breath
- Brown or yellow teeth
- Refusing to eat, especially treats
- Spending more time alone
- Lashing out if you try to pet their face
How to Help Your Cat Keep Tooth Decay Away
1. Yearly Dental Check-Ups
Taking your cat to the vet for a dental checkup every year is a great way to ensure their teeth stay in tip-top shape. Exams give your vet a chance to spot the signs of decay before it becomes a bigger problem. They might recommend a dental cleaning to remove plaque buildup and prevent cavities.
2. Dental Chews or Kibble
Feeding your cat teeth-friendly treats or kibble to help keep their mouth clean is becoming more and more popular. There are now several brands of dental chews for cats that help eliminate plaque from most surfaces of their teeth. And kibble that is packed with healthy vitamins and minerals will also promote strong and healthy teeth. Chatting with your veterinarian about a proper diet can help you narrow down which options would be best for your cat.
3. Daily Brushing
While brushing your cat’s teeth might seem unusual, doing so once a day can keep cavities from forming and keep their breath fresh. Cats have small mouths, so purchasing a toothbrush made for cats will ensure that it’s the right size. For toothpaste, you should only use one made specifically for felines. Most toothpaste for people contains Xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is toxic to cats and can be deadly.
Cat Dental Care You Can Count On
If you are looking for excellent dental and veterinary care for your cat, look no further than East Valley Animal Hospital. Dental exams and cleanings can be scheduled alongside your cat’s yearly wellness exam, so you don’t have to make separate visits.
We offer the best veterinary care in Gilbert, Arizona. Our staff is passionate about providing the highest quality veterinary care, including dental cleanings and checkups. We treat every patient with the same love and respect that we give our own pets.
Cats need dental care, too! Contact us today to make an appointment for a dental cleaning and wellness exam.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (7/31/23). Photo by Silvana Carlos on Unsplash.