Good oral health is essential for every pet, just as it is for every person. It is advisable for cat owners to adopt good oral practices to ensure the comfort of their furry friends. Without proper care, dental diseases in cats could lead to serious infections and tooth loss.
Our veterinarians at Hardin Animal Hospital in Stockton, CA are trained to give expert care to cats suffering from dental diseases. We will also show you how to take care of your cat’s teeth at home.
Keeping Your Cat’s Mouth Clean
It is important to maintain your cat’s dental hygiene. This includes visiting our veterinarian regularly for dental checkups and getting professional teeth cleanings. There are also some things you can do at home to keep your cat’s mouth clean.
Speak to our professionals before you begin any dental cleaning routine to ensure that there are no underlying dental issues you do not know about. Brushing your cat’s teeth at least twice a week is the best way to keep its teeth clean and fresh.
How to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth
Your cat needs to get used to having your fingers in its mouth before it lets you brush its teeth. Here are some steps to follow to start the process:
- Wait until your cat is in a relaxed mood before approaching
- Lift the lips gently and slowly massage the teeth and gums using your fingers for a short while
- Stop before your cat gets irritated
- Reward your pet with a treat after
As your cat continues to build tolerance for the procedure, try to take a bit longer each time till you can start brushing its teeth. You can use a finger brush for cats or some clean soft gauze on your finger as a toothbrush. For toothpaste, buy cat toothpaste found in most pet stores.
Apply a small amount of toothpaste on your preferred toothbrush and brush the teeth gently along the gum line. As your cat gets accustomed to the brushing process, it will become easier to initiate it.
Signs and Symptoms of Dental Illnesses in Cats
Cats tend to hide their pain, thus making it difficult to know when they are experiencing oral discomfort. Here are some tell-tale signs that they have dental issues:
- Foul breath
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Difficulty chewing food
- Pawing at the mouth area
Schedule an Appointment for Cat Dental Care
Taking care of your cat’s oral health is vital in keeping it healthy. At Hardin Animal Hospital in Stockton, CA, we provide cat dental care. With regular cleanings and dental checkups, your cat will live a healthy, happy life. Call us today to schedule an appointment.