Cleaning Cat Teeth

We all have to do it. Brushing teeth is an integral part of every humans life, and while some practice this great hygienic habit more than others; without it our teeth will peril. Good pet owners stretch this habit of hygiene onto their dogs, usually brushing at least once a month, if not weekly. The same concern for our own body and our dogs wellbeing must be bestowed upon our cats. Oral cleaning will likely prevent the decay of your felines teeth. It will also eliminate certain possibilities of unnecessary infections.

Studies have shown that eighty-five percent of the adult cat population has periodontal disease. If this condition is left untreated, harmful bacteria that reside in the oral cavity can begin to spread into the bloodstream and eventually tragically affect some of the bodys main organs. Since dental health is just as important for cats as it is for humans, here are some simple steps to follow towards successfully cleaning your furry friends mouth. First of all, the most important aspect is actually following through with routinely caring for your cats mouth, without lapsing.

It is best if you can begin training your cat at a very young age, which will no doubt make it easier to perform dental hygiene when he matures. Getting a young animal used to a certain method or routine practices is much easier than it is to introduce an adult into something new. On the other hand, if an early introduction is not an option, be it whether you adopted the cat in its adult years or you simply overlooked this step initially; it is still absolutely possible to begin dental health during any age. And it must be done. Start by gathering all of the necessary tools before you begin the process. You will need some clean gauze, scissors, cat toothpaste (available online or at pet stores) or a weak sterile solution specifically recommended by your veterinarian.

Once everything is easily accessible, wrap a piece of gauze around your index finger of your dominant hand. Either place the toothpaste on the gauze as a makeshift toothbrush, or dip it in the sterile solution. Placing your cat on your lap, gently open its mouth with your other hand to expose its teeth. Gently rub your finger-brush in circular motions along the teeth, paying close attention to where the gums meet the teeth. Also, gently massage your cats gums. It isnt as necessary to brush the back of your cats teeth, nor is it necessary to rinse due to the makeup of the cat toothpaste or sterile solution. As you continue this process, your cat is likely to get used to the procedure and you may eventually wish to exchange your finger brush for a small childrens toothbrush or even a specially designed cat toothbrush. Brushing should occur at least once a week, however daily is ideal.

There are numerous products out there designed to help keep cats mouths healthy. It may be wise to experiment a bit to find a taste your cat might welcome more than others (i.e. fish flavor). In any case, it is important to do whatever it takes to properly care for your little loved one. Not only will you be preventing bad breathe and plaque-filled teeth, you will be ensuring the overall well-being of your animal by eliminating the dangers that neglect can cause. Your cat is worth the few extra minutes it takes to do so.