We all know how important dental health is.
No one wants to wake up to a toothache in the middle of the night.
That is why we regularly brush our teeth – some even floss too.
It keeps our teeth protected from cavities and plaque.
If anything concerns us, we make sure to see a dentist and find the root cause. No pun intended.
The same is the case for cats!
Even if the cat is not hunting birds or mice like feral cats, it still needs to have good oral health.
Why do You want to Stay Vigilant?
Unfortunately, unlike humans, cats can’t maintain dental hygiene.
Dental issues are present in many domestic cats, but sadly, most of them don’t receive any form of treatment.
Some even suffer from tooth or gum ache and can’t eat properly.
So, being the owners, we must be observant of any signal of discomfort from our cats.
If need be, we should take them to a veterinarian, so they won’t bear any pain.
What Are Signs of Bad Dental Health in Cats?
Bad Breath
A common sign of dental or gastric issues in cats is having bad breath.
Swollen or Bleeding Gums
Another symptom of bad dental health is swollen or bleeding gums.
Healthy gums should be pink and not reddish.
Tartar and Plaque
Deposits of plaque or tartar on your cat’s teeth is another sign.
It indicates that your cat may be at risk of dental problems such as bacterial infections.
If left unchecked, it can spread to the whole body and affect other organs.
If any of such symptoms appear in your cat, take it immediately to the vet!
How to Maintain Good Dental Hygiene of Your Cat?
I would recommend you to take your cat for a dental checkup twice a year.
If you can’t do that, then at least make one annual visit.
The vet will make sure their teeth are in good condition.
Your job doesn’t end there! Your cat’s dental hygiene should be a part of your daily routine too.
It might not be easy as cats can be aggressive towards being touched.
You must take things slow! Use those moments where your cat is letting you pet it and check its teeth one at a time.
Getting to brushing your cat’s teeth may take more time and patience.
If you can manage to do it at least twice a week, all is good.
You can also use Dental treats and toys.
They have substances to reduce plaque and tartar.
A dental rinse is also a suitable option for those cats which resist toothbrush.
The rinse not only kills the bacteria but also makes their breath fresh.
What to Keep in Mind?
Being an owner, it is our responsibility to ensure our cat’s health is in optimum condition.
It includes dental health too.
So, make sure to check their gums and visit a vet when needed.
It might feel like a hefty work in the beginning, but with time it will become a part of your routine.
