Many pet owners are familiar with the importance of dental care and cleanings for their dogs. Unfortunately, many fail to realize that cats need dental care as well. In fact, cats may be more vulnerable to certain dental issues, and may not show when they're having dental problems. This makes it even more important for you to be aware of your cat's dental health and hygiene. Here's a look at a few things that you should know about your cat's dental care and well-being.
You Should Brush Your Cat's Teeth
Just as you do for yourself and probably your dog, you should also brush your cat's teeth regularly. The more frequently you can do this, the better. In fact, most vets recommend that you brush your cat's teeth daily. If you aren't able to do it daily, you should make a point to brush them as frequently as you possibly can.
Make sure you use the right supplies when you brush your cat's teeth, though. You'll want a toothpaste designed for cats because human toothpaste can make them sick. Not to mention, toothpaste made for cats comes in flavors that they like, such as salmon, chicken, and similar flavors. Your vet can help you choose a toothbrush that's the right size for your cat's mouth, too.
You Can Add Dental Treats, Too
You've probably seen the treats at your vet or in the store that claim to help clean your kitty's teeth. These are dental treats, and they are a good investment. Especially for cats who primarily eat canned food, you'll want to consider giving them some of these treats on a regular basis, but they aren't a substitute for brushing. These treats should be used in conjunction with regular tooth brushing.
You Need to Schedule Regular Exams
In addition to the steps you take on your own for your cat's teeth, you should schedule regular exams with your veterinarian. Your cat won't typically let on when there's a dental problem, so these exams may be the only way to identify infections in the root of a tooth, missing or broken teeth, and other similar problems. These exams should happen at least once a year, or twice a year for some cats based on your vet's recommendation.
These are some of the things that every cat owner should understand about their pet and dental health. Take the steps necessary to protect your cat's teeth today so that he or she stays healthy and avoids the pain and complications of dental infections.
Share18 November 2021
When you take your pet to the veterinarian's office, what do you expect? Most owners want kind, compassionate care for their beloved pets, whether they're just stopping by for a vaccine or taking their pet in for surgery. Veterinarians are glad to provide this kind and compassionate service. After all, they all started off as animal lovers themselves! Here on this website, we post articles related to veterinarians and their work. We hope that by reading them, you come to understand a little more about the life and work of the vets that keep your animals strong, healthy, and vibrant into their old age.
