How to Clean a Cat's Teeth

Maintaining your cat's oral health is crucial for their overall well-being. Like humans, cats can suffer from dental problems that may lead to more serious health issues. In this blog post, our La Pine vets will discuss why cat teeth cleaning is important and how to clean your cat's teeth at home.

Why is cat teeth cleaning important? 

Cat teeth cleaning is vital for several reasons:

• Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and tooth decay.
• Dental issues can cause significant pain and discomfort for your cat.
• Poor dental hygiene can lead to systemic issues, such as heart, liver, and kidney problems, as bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream.
• Regular cleaning helps to keep your cat's breath fresh.

How do I clean my cat's teeth at home?

Maintaining your cat's daily oral hygiene routine is important to ensure their teeth and gums stay healthy. We understand that brushing your cat's teeth daily can be challenging, so aim to brush them at least two or three times a week.

Establish an oral hygiene routine for your cat when it is still a kitten to make cleaning its teeth at home easier. This will help your cat get used to having its teeth brushed and mouth touched from a young age, making it less bothersome as they get older.

When you're ready to brush your cat's teeth, wait until your cat is calm and relaxed, and 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 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 your time 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 and some special cat toothpaste. Toothpaste can come in various flavors for cats, like beef or chicken.
5. Use the toothbrush as gradually as you did the teeth-and-gum massage. To get them used to the toothpaste, let your cat lick just a small dab of toothpaste from your finger. 

What happens during a professional teeth cleaning visit for my cat?

A professional teeth cleaning visit involves several steps:

• The veterinarian will examine your cat's mouth to assess their dental health.
• Your cat will be placed under anesthesia for a thorough cleaning and examination, ensuring it remains still and comfortable.
• The vet will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth above and below the gum line. The teeth will then be polished to smooth the surfaces and help prevent future plaque buildup.
• X-rays may be taken to check for issues below the gum line that are not visible during the examination.
• The vet will check for any loose or damaged teeth and assess the health of the gums.

How can I prevent tartar accumulation after the cleaning? 

Preventing tartar accumulation is crucial for maintaining your cat's oral health after a professional cleaning. Here are some tips:

• Continue to brush your cat's teeth regularly using the techniques mentioned above.
• Provide your cat with dental treats and toys that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Feel free to ask your vet for some suggestions.
• Consider a dental care diet formulated to promote oral health.
• Schedule regular veterinary checkups to monitor your cat's dental health and catch any issues early.

Following these steps can help ensure your cat maintains healthy teeth and gums, preventing serious dental and overall health issues.

By understanding why it's essential, learning how to clean your cat's teeth at home, knowing what to expect during a professional cleaning, and taking steps to prevent tartar accumulation, you can keep your cat's smile healthy and bright.

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.