Cleaning your cat's teeth is an important part of grooming.Your pet's oral and overall health can be adversely affected by the growth of plaque andbacteria in the mouth, if you don't brush your cat teeth with a special pet toothbrush and toothpaste.It might be difficult to clean the teeth of an adult cat.You and your cat should get used to it after a few practice sessions.You should brush your cat's teeth at least weekly.
Step 1: You can visit the vet.
There is a chance that your cat has a build up of plaque or Tartar.It is possible to remove plaque by brushing, but it requires the use of special tools and can only be done in a vet's office.If it is safe to brush your cat's teeth, your vet should be able to tell you.Your vet should be able to recommend oral health care products that are safe and effective for your cat.
Step 2: Purchase what you need.
Your basic supplies will include a toothbrush and toothpaste.You can't use human toothpaste on a cat because it's toxic to them.You will need a toothbrush as well.Xylitol can be fatal to a cat.There are two types of cat toothbrushes: one that looks like a child-sized toothbrush and the other that is a fingertip type.You can buy a pet dental kit from your vet or pet store.
Step 3: Take your cat to the bathroom.
Over a few days, introduce the tooth brushing slowly.This will help your cat stay relaxed and know what to expect so he won't be scared and will be less likely to struggle.Put a small amount of pet toothpaste on your finger and let your cat lick it off.On the next day, run your finger along the gum of your cat's upper teeth.Put the toothpaste on the toothbrush and let your cat use it.Like people, cats have flavor preferences.It's a good idea to buy multiple types of toothpaste to see if your cat prefers one over the other.
Step 4: Bring your cat to the toothbrush.
The cat will be more comfortable around the toothbrush if it is allowed to interact with it.Most cats will rub their cheeks and gums along the surface of objects to claim it as their own.Get your cat used to having the toothbrush around his mouth before you try to use it on him.Allowing him access to the brush at least once a day for twenty minutes for two to three days before use should make him more comfortable with the cleaning apparatus.If you have more than one cat, make sure each animal has his or her own toothbrush and don't use the same toothbrush on multiple cats.
Step 5: Reward your cat for being friendly.
While acclimating your cat to the toothbrush and toothpaste, be sure to reward him with small treats or a favorite toy after he has interacted with the tooth cleaning devices.If your cat seems reluctant or fearful of the toothbrush or toothpaste, don't give him a treat, as this can reinforce negative interactions.
Step 6: Put your cat on a surface that is comfortable.
While you clean his teeth, this can help your cat relax.Wrap your cat in a towel to keep him from scratching or trying to escape.You should be able to brush your cat's teeth in less than 30 seconds.It is a good idea to wear gloves or long sleeves if your cat tries to escape the cleaning.
Step 7: Your cat has teeth.
You should have given your cat a few days to get used to it.Try brushing a few of the teeth with the toothpaste on the fourth day.Your cat will let you run the toothbrush along the gum and teeth if you repeat this daily.If you want the bristles of the brush to get under the gum line, you have to angle them up.
Step 8: Circle the gum line.
Make small circles along the gum line, massaging the gums, once your cat is fine with the routine described in the previous step.
Step 9: You should brush regularly.
If you want your cat's mouth to be the healthiest it can be, make sure to repeat the routine on a daily basis or at least a few times a week.It is not possible to reach the plaque just under the gum line with brushing.You can reduce the amount of plaque in your cat's mouth by brushing it.
Step 10: Check to make sure there are no problems.
While brushing your cat's teeth, do a quick Scan of his mouth to see if there is anything that needs further attention from a vet.Bleeding gums are a sign that your cat needs dental scaling and should be taken care of as soon as possible.Your cat's mouth should be inspected by a vet.
Step 11: Pair treatments if you know your cat's tendencies.
Cats will not allow you to brush their teeth at home on a daily or bi-weekly basis.If your cat won't allow the brushing process to happen, you can try to schedule regular visits to the vet for professional cleaning.You should know that oral health treats, toys, and foods are not a substitute for daily brushing.If your cat experiences a high amount of stress when it is taken to the vet, you will need to consider the stress it causes you during the brushing process.
Step 12: Special food can be used.
Some foods and cat treats are formulated to help cats get rid of plaque on their teeth.The kibble is formed to have a rougher texture.The plaque is worn away as the cat chews.When purchasing a food designed to control plaque, look for it labeled asdental care or tooth care.Tartar on the teeth will prevent these foods from working.This needs to be removed by a dentist before food can be prepared.There are certain conditions that cats should not eat this type of food if you are trying it with your cat.).
Step 13: Use dental sprays.
Adding something to the water will reduce the amount ofbacteria in your cat's mouth.You can apply these products directly to the teeth with a spray bottle.If your cat has any existing medical conditions, you should check with your vet.Tartar can be removed from teeth with these products, but they don't control the amount ofbacteria in the cat's mouth.
Step 14: Use toys for cats.
You can buy netted cat toys that can be used to clean your cat's teeth, massage his gums, and keep him entertained.Cats have a natural inclination to chew so you might as well give him something to eat that will enhance his teeth strength and dental health at the same time.
Step 15: A professional cleaning is recommended.
Even with regular tooth brushing, some cats will need an occasional professional cleaning, just like some people have to go to the dentist more frequently than others.Tartar can accumulate along the gum lines, so it is time for a dental cleaning.There is Tartar on the teeth along the gum lines.It will become a darker brown or grey as it accumulates.
Step 16: There is a difference between plaque and Tartar.
There is plaque on the surface of your cat's teeth.Tartar can only be removed by dental scaling at the vet's office if the plaque is not removed with a good brushing.If you don't properly care for your cat's oral hygiene, there are a number of conditions that can develop.
Step 17: Take a look at gingivitis.
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums which appears as a dark red line.Just like in humans, gingivitis is a sign of poor dental health and needs to be addressed by a veterinarians before it becomes a more serious problem.
Step 18: There are signs of periodontitis.
This is caused when gingivitis is not treated.Periodontitis can develop deep below the gum line.This can cause problems with the teeth.
Step 19: There are mouth ulcers.
Painful mouth ulcers can occur when gingivitis is not treated.These will look like red sores in the cat's mouth.These wounds will bleed.
Step 20: There are rodents that have ulcers.
The sore or swelling on the cat's upper lip is related to rodents.
Step 21: There are signs of stomatitis.
Stomatitis is inflammation of the mouth.The cat will have a hard time eating.The inside of the mouth will be raw.There are a number of conditions that can develop if you don't properly care for your cat's oral hygiene.
Step 22: You should be aware of other medical conditions.
There is mounting evidence that various body organs can be affected by the toxins that can travel from the mouth to the bloodstream.Inflammation in the mouth can contribute to a number of diseases.