Dental Health Tips For Your Cat

How often do you brush your cat’s teeth? It is suggested that owners should brush their companion’s teeth after every meal, or at least once a day to keep their dental health in check. Did you know that once a cat reaches the age of three, they’re more likely to experience issues related to their dental health? Check for signs of bad breath, drooling, lack of appetite or repetitive shaking and pawing at their mouth for signs of a potential issue. If left untreated, poor dental hygiene can lead to more serious conditions, including kidney and heart disease. Many owners find that putting anything in a cat’s mouth to be a tricky, squirmy process, so here are a few tips to keep in mind when thinking about your furry friend’s dental health.

It is important to get into a habit of checking your cat’s teeth and gums for problems – the sooner you start, or earlier in your cat’s life you establish these habits, the better and more cooperative and patient they’ll be during teeth brushing and check-ups. Start by gently lifting their upper lip to check for red, swollen gums, or tartar build up on their teeth for indications that it’s time for a check in at the vet.

Use a pet-safe, cat-friendly toothpaste. Let one of our experts help you find a toothpaste in-store that will keep your cat interested and distracting during the brushing and cleaning process.

When it comes to selecting a toothbrush for your cat, opt for a human baby-sized or pet toothbrush, or a rubber finger slip that goes over your finger that allows you to graze over their teeth.

Reward with some catnip throughout the process to make it a pleasant experience for your kitty. We carry many great brands that are specifically formulated and coated to clean your pet’s teeth while chewing. Greenies Dental Treats are a great option for this, as they freshen breath while the treats’ textured surface helps remove tartar buildup. Ask our Experts in-store which treats they recommend!