Dental Care for your Cat

Home dental care for your cat has the same goal as home dental care for yourself: to remove dental plaque. Plaque is the sticky, whitish film with the bad taste and offensive odor that accumulates inside the mouth. Plaque is about 85% bacteria and will mineralize to form tartar. Plaque accumulation causes infection in the gums (gingivitis) and of the bone around the teeth (periodontitis). Your cat depends on you to provide home dental care and regular professional examinations. Use one or more of the following methods, as recommended by your veterinarian.

Daily Toothbrushing

This is the very best home dental care you can provide for your pet. Toothbrushing removes plaque above and below the gumline. Daily removal of plaque slows the accumulation of tartar and helps prevent gum and bone infections. Use a soft toothbrush and or cat toothpaste. Cat toothpastes are made to be swallowed, unlike toothpastes for people. This is important because your pet cannot "rinse and spit". Cat toothpastes come in flavors such as chicken or seafood. Take your time, be patient, and be generous with praise and rewards. From your cat's perspective, toothbrushing means attention from you, tasty toothpaste on a soft brush, and a reward afterwards. Your veterinarian or veterinary dental technician can show you how to brush your cat's teeth.

Antibacterial Oral Gel or Rinse

An antibacterial oral gel or rinse made for cats is another option. When brushing is not possible, daily use will help slow accumulation of dental plaque. For some cats, the gel should be used instead of toothpaste. Ask your veterinarian or veterinary dental technician to demonstrate how to apply gel.

Chew Toys

Chew toys partially remove plaque and tartar above the gumline, exercise the jaw muscles, and satisfy your cat's natural urge to chew.

Dental Diets

Dental diets are commercial foods intended to decrease the accumulation of plaque and tartar. We offer Hills prescription T/D and Science Diet Oral Care available for purchase at the hospital.

Dental Checkups

Home dental care and regular professional examinations help protect your cat's health. Most cats need a dental exam every year. Ask your veterinarian how often your cat needs a dental exam. Even if your cat appears normal, provide regular professional examinations because cats can effectively hide severe dental problems.