Home Dental Care for Cats
Dr. Jana Levin, DVM, Diplomat American Veterinary Dental
CollegeHome dental care for your cat has the same goal as home dental care for yourself: to remove dental plaque. Plaque is the sticky, whitish film with the bad taste and offensive odor that accumulates inside the mouth. Plaque is about 85% bacteria and will mineralize to form tartar. Plaque accumulation causes infection in the gums (gingivitis) and of the bone around the teeth (periodontitis). Your cat depends on you to provide home dental care and regular professional examinations. Use one or more of the following methods, as recommended by your veterinarian.
Daily Toothbrushing
This is the very best home dental care you can provide for your pet. Toothbrushing removes plaque above and below the gumline. Daily removal of plaque slows the accumulation of tartar and helps prevent gum and bone infections. Use a soft toothbrush and or cat toothpaste. The ProClean ™ toothbrush has end-rounded, very thin bristles that create a flexible, gentle brush and comes in a small size to fit your cat's mouth. A few cats will allow you to use a Rotodent ™, an electric toothbrush. Cat toothpastes are made to be swallowed, unlike toothpastes for people. This is important because your pet cannot "rinse and spit". Cat toothpastes come in flavors such as chicken or seafood. Take your time, be patient, and be generous with praise and rewards. From your cat's perspective, toothbrushing means attention from you, tasty toothpaste on a soft brush, and a reward afterwards. Your veterinarian or veterinary dental technician can show you how to brush your cat's teeth.
Antibacterial Oral Gel or Rinse
An antibacterial oral gel or rinse made for cats is another option. When brushing is not possible, daily use will help slow accumulation of dental plaque. Apply the gel using the "peace sign technique." For some cats, the gel should be used instead of toothpaste. CET Oral Hygiene gel in the dial syringe has a fish flavor that is usually well accepted and application is easy. Ask your veterinarian or veterinary dental technician to demonstrate how to apply CET gel.
Chew Toys
Chew toys partially remove plaque and tartar above the gumline, exercise the jaw muscles, and satisfy your cat's natural urge to chew. The CET Forte Cat Chew™ is an abrasive, resilient chew treat that removes a significant amount of plaque. The Cat Chew is treated with enzymes that generate antibacterial activity.
Dental Diets
Dental diets are commercial foods intended to decrease the accumulation of plaque and tartar. These diets seem to work well for some cats and not at all for others. Trying the diet is the only way to find out if it will work for your cat.
Dental Checkups
Home dental care and regular professional examinations help protect your cat's health. Most cats need a dental exam every six months. Ask your veterinarian how often your cat needs a dental exam. Even if your cat appears normal, provide regular professional examinations because cats can effectively hide severe dental problems.