Cat Teeth Cleaning: How to Clean Cat's Teeth

While we don't expect our cats to prioritize their dental health themselves, its important pet parents keep their furry feline's oral hygiene top of mind. Did you know cats can suffer from painful toothaches and gum disease just like people can? Along with annual dental cleanings at the vet's office, taking care of your cat's teeth at home can help prevent disease and keep their teeth happy and healthy. Today, our South Plainfield vets explain more about caring for your cat's teeth at home.

Caring For Your Cat's Dental Health

Cats are stoic creatures known for hiding their pain. While they may not be letting on that they are uncomfortable, they can be experiencing excruciating tooth pain. Because of this, owners need to be conscious of their feline companion's oral health and keep their furry companion's teeth clean. By monitoring and regularly cleaning your cat's teeth, pet parents can detect any oral health issues early and help their cat avoid pain and expensive treatment.

At Home Oral Health Care for Cats

Maintaining a daily dental hygiene routine for your cat could help to keep your feline friend's teeth and gums healthy throughout their lifetime. To make cleaning your cat's teeth at home as easy and stress-free as possible, begin establishing a daily oral hygiene routine for your cat while they are still young. This way, your cat will be accustomed to having their teeth brushed and mouth touched from a young age.

Strive to make brushing your cat's teeth a stress-free and easy part of your kitty's daily routine. Start by waiting until your cat is calm and relaxed, then follow these steps:

1. Gently lift your cat's lips, then use your finger to massage their teeth and gums for just a few seconds.
2. Don't expect too much from your cat at first. You may only be able to reach a couple of teeth the first few times you try this process. That's okay though. This is about building trust in your cat to help prevent them from becoming agitated. 
3. Remain calm and be sure to give lots of praise and a yummy treat after your teeth-and-gum massage. You're trying to build your cat’s tolerance to the experience, gradually increasing the length of time you spend on the task each day.
4. Once your feline friend is used to you massaging their gums each day, you will be able to gradually introduce a soft-bristled toothbrush you can acquire from your vet and some special cat toothpaste. Toothpaste can come in a range of excellent flavors for cats like beef or chicken.
5. Begin using the toothbrush as gradually as you did the teeth-and-gum massage; your cat may begin by licking just a small dab of toothpaste from your finger. 

Be Patient While Your Cat Gets Used Teeth Cleaning

Your particular cat's temperament will be the biggest factor in if you can brush their teeth successfully or not. Make sure you are calm, relaxed, flexible, and willing to adapt your approach to your cat's level of tolerance. Many cat owners have a very easy time cleaning their pet's teeth with some gauze, others find a finger brush works well and others apply a dental gel with their fingers that they allow to do the work for them.

When you finally begin brushing your cat's teeth successfully, move along the gum line, working quickly but stopping before your cat becomes irritated. It could be weeks before your kitty tolerates having all of its teeth cleaned during a single session.

If your cat is stressed out by the teeth cleaning process, they may react by scratching or biting. So if brushing your cat's teeth is too difficult for you and your kitty, consider adding plaque remover additives into their drinking water, getting them specially designed chew toys, or providing your cat with tasty dental treats.

Professional Dental Care for Cats

To help ensure that your cat's mouth stays pain-free and healthy, our vets recommend annual professional dental care as a part of your kitty's preventative healthcare routine. Taking your cat for a dental appointment is like a visit to the cat dentist. Your vet will evaluate your cat's oral health, take X-rays if required, and do a thorough cleaning.

If your cat is suffering from a mouth injury, tooth loss, or severe decay, your dentist will provide you with recommendations regarding care or surgery to treat your cat's oral health issues. 

To learn more about dental care for cats available here at our South Plainfield animal hospital check out our dentistry page.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.