Dental Care for Cats in Naples and Lehigh

You may not realize it but your cat needs his or her teeth brushed just like you do. Not brushing your cats teeth can lead to gum disease, bad breath and other health problems. You should never use human toothpaste or human tooth brushes for your cat. Instead we recommend you stop by our office or your local pet supply store and pickup a toothbrush and toothpaste made especially for cats. Brushing your cats teeth should start at a very young age to help them get used to it.

Periodontal disease is the single largest cause of health problems in cats and affects 85% of adult cats.

Caused when a buildup of plaque calcifies, forming tartar, which pushes food debris and bacteria under the gum line, infecting the gum and bone structure that support the teeth. Inflamed gums, swelling, bleeding gums or bad breath are among the symptoms. As in humans, periodontal disease is the most common dental diseases in cats. Treatment for this disease includes antibiotics, dental cleaning, and extraction for advanced cases.

Your veterinarian will look for plaque and calculus, oral lesions, and signs of gingivitis or stomatitis. If indicated, s/he will clean and scale kitty's teeth

Home Dental Care

Brush
Brush daily, if possible, and at least twice-weekly. Special cat-sized toothbrushes are available, also one that slips over your index finger. Experts recommend starting early with kittens and a tuna-juice soaked brush. Specially flavored pet toothpastes help make the brushing a "treat" for your cat. Don't try to do the whole mouth the first day, just one tooth will suffice. Once kitty gets used to the idea, you can add more teeth each day. For detailed instructions, see the "How To" linked in the sidebar.
Rinse
Other products for cats with especially tender mouths, or who already have dental problems include antiseptic dental gels, rinses, and sprays. Although not a substitute for brushing, rinsing also helps protect and clean teeth on days you can't brush.
Chew
Several pharmaceutical companies offer dental chews for cats. Flavored with fish or poultry, these chews offer an abrasive texture, which may help remove food debris and plaque from your cat's teeth. Cat owners who feed raw may offer raw chicken wing tips for the same purpose.

With a regular at-home dental maintenance program, combined with veterinary dental examinations, your cat should be assured of sound dental health for life.

Dental for Cats

Dental for Cats