Cat Dental Care: Keeping Your Feline’s Teeth Healthy

cat care at the village vet
Dec 11, 2024

Just like humans, your cat’s dental health plays a crucial role in their overall well-being. However, studies show that up to 85% of cats over the age of three are affected by some form of dental disease. The good news is, with proper care and regular check-ups, you can help keep your cat’s teeth healthy and prevent painful dental problems from arising.

Understanding Dental Disease in Cats

Dental disease in cats usually starts as a thin film of plaque—a sticky substance made up of bacteria and food particles. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar in just 48 hours, which can lead to more serious health problems. Untreated tartar buildup can result in painful conditions like bad breath, gum inflammation, and even tooth loss.

Fortunately, dental disease is preventable. With the right routine care, including professional cleanings and home dental hygiene, your cat’s teeth can remain healthy and free from painful conditions.

Common Signs of Dental Disease in Cats

As a cat owner, it’s important to recognize the early signs of dental issues. Some symptoms to watch out for include:

  • Bad breath
  • Red or inflamed gums (gingivitis)
  • Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth
  • Excessive drooling or salivation
  • Eating messily or dropping food while eating
  • Chewing on one side of the mouth
  • Pawing at the face or mouth
  • Reluctance to eat or showing discomfort while eating
  • Swelling around the face or jaw
  • Bleeding from the gums or mouth

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to book a veterinary appointment right away. Early intervention is key to preventing more serious dental problems from developing.

Cat in pain from dental disease

Common Dental Issues in Cats

Just like humans, cats can suffer from various dental conditions. Here are some of the most common dental issues in felines:

  1. Periodontitis
    Periodontitis is a severe gum disease caused by plaque and tartar buildup. It leads to gingivitis (gum inflammation), and if left untreated, it damages the supporting structures of the teeth. Over time, untreated periodontitis can result in tooth loss.
  2. Stomatitis
    Stomatitis is the inflammation of the mouth’s soft tissues. It is often associated with viral infections or dental disease and can be extremely painful. In severe cases, your cat may require tooth extractions to provide relief.
  3. Resorptive Lesions
    A common and painful condition, resorptive lesions occur when the body’s own cells begin to break down the tooth structure, typically starting at the gum line. Unlike human cavities, these lesions require extraction of the affected tooth to alleviate pain and prevent further damage.
  4. Fractures
    Trauma such as a fall, bite, or rough play can lead to fractured teeth. If not treated promptly, fractures can result in infections. X-rays are needed to assess the severity of the damage and determine the best treatment, which may include extraction or root canal procedures.
cat getting treated for dental disease

Dental Disease Prevention

Professional Dental Care for Cats

dental scale and polish is one of the best ways to maintain your cat’s oral health. This procedure, which is performed under general anesthesia, includes:

  • Plaque and Tartar Removal: An ultrasonic scaler removes plaque and tartar, including from below the gumline.
  • Polishing: Smooths the tooth surface, making plaque buildup less likely.
  • Comprehensive Examination: Identifies any damage, gum pockets, or other potential issues.
  • Dental X-Rays: Detects problems below the gumline, such as root issues, attachment loss, or surrounding bone problems.

At The Village Vet, we recommend a professional dental scale and polish at least once a year to help prevent dental diseases and ensure your cat’s teeth and gums remain healthy. Regular dental cleanings are key to identifying potential problems early, keeping your cat comfortable, and preventing more serious issues down the line.

At-Home Dental Care Tips

Maintaining your cat’s oral health goes beyond visits to the vet. Here are some effective ways to care for your cat’s teeth at home:

1. Dietary Solutions

  • Dental Foods: Products like Hill’s T/D and Royal Canin Dental feature larger kibble and special textures that help clean teeth while chewing.
  • Seaweed Products: Supplements such as Simply Seaweed or Plaque Off help alter saliva properties to reduce plaque adherence (not suitable for cats with thyroid issues).
  • Dental Treats: Greenies and similar products use the mechanical action of chewing to help clean teeth.

2. Gels and Toothpaste

  • Maxiguard Gel: A pea-sized drop applied to your cat’s teeth can aid in maintaining oral hygiene.
  • Pet Toothpaste: Always use toothpaste specifically formulated for cats. Avoid human toothpaste, as it contains fluoride and can taste unpleasant for cats.

3. Brushing Techniques

how to brush your cats teeth

Brushing your cat’s teeth is ideal for preventing plaque buildup. Follow these steps to make it a positive experience:

  • Introduce Gradually: Let your cat smell and taste the toothpaste before attempting to touch their teeth.
  • Use the Right Tools: Finger brushes, pet toothbrushes, or small, soft children’s toothbrushes are effective.
  • Start Slow: Begin with short sessions and gradually increase to 30 seconds per side.
  • Proper Positioning: Sit with your cat facing away from you, gently hold their head, and lift their lips to access their teeth.
  • Focus on the Back Teeth: These teeth often need the most attention.

Why Regular Dental Checks Matter

Dental disease is common in cats, but with proper care, it is preventable and manageable. At The Village Vet, we offer free dental checks for our clients. Our friendly team is here to provide tailored advice to help keep your feline family members happy and healthy.

Don’t wait for subtle signs of dental issues to become major problems. Book your cat’s dental check today and ensure their smile stays bright for years to come!

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