Cats generally have very good teeth and gum health. Their diet consists of little sugar and other ingredients that pest us humans so much. However, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80% of dogs and around 70% of cats will develop gum disease by the time they turn three years old. Mild gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is characterized by redness or swelling of the gum. However, more severe symptoms are loose teeth, bleeding and pockets forming in gum gaps. To fight this, some cat owners have turn to brushing their cat’s teeth.
Brushing Cats Teeth
Most cats want nothing to do with you poking around in their mouth. Brushing cat’s teeth can be tricky. Be patient and incorporate treats.
Cat Toothbrush
Finding a good cat toothbrush is not difficult. Most pet stores and even retail stores will have them. They are generally smaller than a human toothbrush with less bristles. They also are usually angled a little to allow you to brush them while facing the cat. A human toothbrush can be used as well but it might not be quite as effective due to the surface area being too large. If you use a human one for a cat toothbrush, a harder bristle brush works best.
Cat Toothpaste
Cat toothpaste now comes in a variety of flavors. CET produces several types of pet toothpaste including: Seafood, Poultry, Malt, Beef and even Mint.
Cat Teeth Cleaning
If your cat has really bad breath or serious gum disease, your veterinarian may recommend that you bring your cat in to have a professional cat teeth cleaning. A cat teeth cleaning usually involves your cat being put under anesthesia for the procedure. Additionally, cat teeth cleaning session cat be very expensive. However, they can be a life-saving treatment if your cat has an infection or other serious teeth relating health issue.