We can reduce or even prevent dental disease by feeding a diet designed to reduce plaque and tartar along with daily tooth brushing. The following are steps to guide you on how to brush your cat's teeth:
The first step is to start with a clean, healthy mouth, such as with a young pet with healthy new teeth and gums or after your cat has had a professional dental cleaning.
You will need a soft-bristled toothbrush and veterinary toothpaste. Human toothpaste and baking soda may cause problems. Veterinary toothpaste has flavors that are appealing to cats. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to be able to get below the gum line (the most important area to brush). There are toothbrushes specially designed for cats.
There are several important facts about our pets' mouths that tell us when, where, and how to brush. Periodontal disease usually affects the upper, and back teeth first and worst. Plaque builds up on the tooth surface daily, especially just under the gum line. It takes less than 36 hours for this plaque to become mineralized and harden into "tartar" (calculus) that cannot be removed with a brush. Because of this progression, brushing should be done daily, with a brush to remove the plaque from under the gum line.
Pick a time of day that will become a convenient part of your pet's and your daily routine. Brushing before a daily treat can help your pet actually look forward to brushing time. Take a few days to let both of you get used to the process. Follow with praise and a treat each time.
Start by offering her a taste of the veterinary toothpaste. The next time, let her taste the toothpaste, then run your finger along the gums of the upper teeth. Repeat the process with the toothbrush. Get the bristles of the brush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line. Work from back to front, making small circles along the gum lines. It should take you less than 30 seconds to brush your pet's teeth. If gingivitis (inflamed gum tissue) is present you may find some blood on the toothbrush. Do not stop brushing! The gingivitis is reversible if you continue your brushing routine the bloody toothbrush will stop within a few days. Do not try to brush the entire mouth at first. If all that your pet lets you brush is the outside of the upper teeth, you are still addressing the most important area of periodontal disease - prevention. If your pet eventually allows you to brush most of her teeth, so much the better.
Even with the best tooth brushing, some cats may still need occasional professional cleaning, just like humans. By brushing your pet's teeth daily and curtailing the amount of periodontal disease, you may reduce the frequency and involvement of dental cleanings and provide your pet with a healthier, sweeter smile.
