Wait…I Need to Brush My Cat’s Teeth?

Just like humans, cats need their teeth checked at least once a year. At your next visit to the vet’s office, ask your veterinarian to take a look at your cat’s teeth. They can tell you whether or not you should consider a professional teeth cleaning for your cat. Bleeding gums, swelling and bad breath are all signs of oral disease and you should notify your vet if you notice these symptoms.

Thankfully, there are plenty of steps you can take to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing your cat’s teeth is just one of them! Your cat might be a little fussy for the first couple of brushing sessions, but once they get used to the sensation they might even enjoy it. Be sure to buy a finger brush and cat-specific toothpaste, as human toothpaste contains fluoride and other ingredients that can be harmful to kitties.

If your cat doesn’t quite catch on to the whole brushing thing, there are a variety of alternatives available. Oral rinses, water additives, gels and wipes are less troublesome to apply for more fussy cats. There are also supplements and treats that might be more palatable to your kitty.

A quality food can also make a huge difference in your cat’s dental hygiene. The SPCA of Texas proudly feeds the animals under our care Hill’s Science Diet.