Do You Need to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth?
In this article:
The answer is yes! Brushing your cat's teeth is an essential part of their daily care. Regular brushing helps prevent plaque, tartar, and gum inflammation, which can cause both pain and illness.
The Importance of Regular Cat Dental Cleaning
Healthy teeth are about more than just fresh breath – they help prevent a range of health issues. Without proper dental care, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to tooth loss and other serious complications. By regularly brushing your cat’s teeth, you can reduce the risk of painful dental problems and costly vet bills.
How Often Should You Brush Your Cat’s Teeth?
To maintain optimal dental health, it’s best to brush your cat’s teeth daily. However, brushing at least 2–3 times a week can still yield good results. Making dental care a part of your cat’s daily routine increases the chances of preventing plaque and tartar buildup.
When Should You Start Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth?
The earlier, the better! Ideally, start when your cat is a kitten to help them get used to the process from a young age. If your cat is older, be patient and take it slow. Allow them to get comfortable with you touching their mouth before introducing the toothbrush
Choosing the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Use a toothbrush specifically designed for cats with soft bristles, such as a finger toothbrush, for better control in the beginning. The toothpaste should be specially formulated for cats – never use human toothpaste!
Step-by-Step Guide to Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth
Preparation:
Choose a calm moment when your cat is relaxed. Place them on your lap or in a comfortable spot.
Familiarise Your Cat with the Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Let them sniff and taste the toothbrush and toothpaste. If they are not used to having their mouth touched, take time to introduce this gradually.
Start Gently:
Lift your cat’s lip and begin brushing the front teeth (fangs) with gentle movements. Keep the initial sessions short.
Brushing Technique:
Use small circular motions and focus on the gum line where plaque tends to accumulate. Start by brushing the canine teeth, then slowly move along to the teeth behind.
End on a Positive Note:
Praise your cat throughout the process and reward them with a treat afterward. Perhaps a nutritious Dental Bite that also helps fight plaque?
ProDen PlaqueOff® Dental Bites for Cats
What Should Your Cat’s Teeth Look Like?
A healthy cat’s teeth should be white and free from deposits, while their gums should be pink without signs of inflammation. By regularly checking your cat’s mouth and brushing their teeth daily, you can monitor their oral health and detect any changes early to prevent dental disease.
The image below shows the teeth of a cat and a dog before and after regular use of PlaqueOff®. The before images clearly highlight plaque-covered teeth in need of cleaning, while the after images demonstrate significant improvement, though some deposits may remain.
Complementary Dental Care for Your Cat
To support brushing, we offer a range of products that promote your cat’s oral health. Our bestseller, ProDen PlaqueOff® Powder, is a natural supplement that effectively reduces plaque and tartar while improving bad breath. Additionally, we provide ProDen PlaqueOff® Soft Chews and Dental Bites, tasty treats that make maintaining good oral hygiene easy. These products work perfectly alongside regular brushing to ensure your cat has a healthy mouth and strong teeth.
Small Habits, Big Impact
If your cat shows signs of dental issues such as red or bleeding gums or difficulty eating, schedule a vet appointment. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for identifying problems early. If your cat strongly resists toothbrushing, you can also book a professional dental cleaning at the vet.
Brushing your cat’s teeth is a relatively simple but essential routine to prevent dental issues. With the right technique and high-quality products, it can become a natural part of your cat’s care. A thorough cleaning only requires about 30 seconds per side, making it an easy way to support your cat’s dental health. Remember, while daily brushing is best, even brushing a few times a week can improve their dental health. And don’t forget – it’s never too late to start a good habit!
FAQ
We offer a range of products that support your cat’s oral health, such as our PlaqueOff® Powder. However, we always recommend brushing and regular check-ups at the vet as well.
Pet toothpaste is specifically formulated to be safe for animals and does not contain fluoride or other harmful ingredients found in human toothpaste. It also comes in flavours that appeal to pets, making brushing easier and more enjoyable for them.
Try using dental treats or powders as alternatives. Gradual training with positive reinforcement can also help your cat get used to brushing. Additionally, take them for regular vet check-ups, at least once a year, to monitor any changes in their mouth.
Wild cats maintain their dental health by chewing on bones, fur, and raw meat, which help scrape away plaque and debris naturally.