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Cleaning you kitten / cat's teeth is a
daily commitment - it should be an enjoyable time with your cat but does
need to approached slowly to enable your cat to become accustomed to the
procedure. Give lots of praise as you go through the stages below.
Ensure you have the the correct toothbrush and paste both of
which should be designed for animal use. Human toothpastes are likely to
upset your cat's stomach. Cat toothbrushes are smaller, softer and are a
different shape.
If your cat has periodontal disease a specific toothpaste will
be recommended.
How to Begin
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Chose a time when you are not rushed and
both you and your kitten / cat are relaxed and your cat not
overly playful. To get your cat used to having
something in it's mouth, begin by using an index finder and
gently rub this along the gums of the top and bottom jaw on
either side of the mouth. Keep this session short and
praise your cat afterwards.
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You can then use a little of the
flavoured toothpaste. Let your cat lick the paste off
your finger which she will view as a treat. Again, praise
your cat.
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After a few days of this, you then
introduce the toothbrush. Apply a pea sized amount of
toothpaste to the brush pushing it down into the bristles.
Allow your cat to lick the paste from the brush and in doing
so get used to the texture of the bristles. Praise
your cat.
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When you begin to use the
toothbrush and paste to actually clean the teeth, start
by brushing one or both of the upper canines. These are
the large ones towards the front on either side of the
lower and upper jaw. It is the mechanical action of the
brush on the teeth that is important;
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Similarly the use of a gum
massager, unless contraindicated, will provide benefit to the gums.
Talk to your cat and praise her when you have finished.
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When your cat accepts having several teeth brushed you
can slowly increase the number you clean at each session.
Aim to brush your cats teeth on a daily basis - once you get
started it will become part of your daily routine just as brushing your own
teeth is.
Food has a direct impact on your cat's teeth. Studies
have shown that feeding a dry diet will help prevent plaque accumulating on the
teeth. Veterinary dentist- approved diets are available through our
surgery. Avoid feeding sweet treats and human foods as these will increase the
build up of plaque and tartar.
Dental treats are also available from the surgery which are
designed for cats over six months old.
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