When you think of cat care, you undoubtedly think of the necessities: food, bedding, a litterbox, and, of course, regular visits to our pet clinic. Cats may consider themselves invincible, yet they are susceptible to a variety of illnesses and diseases. They, like humans, can suffer from severe and dangerous dental problems. In this article, a local Plano, TX veterinarian discusses the fundamentals of feline dental care.
What Are the Most Common Dental Problems In Cats?
Cats can have a variety of dental concerns. Gum disease, or periodontitis, is very common in them, as it is in humans and dogs. Fluffy may potentially develop stomatitis, a severely painful gum infection. Our feline friends may also suffer from cracked, broken, or missing teeth, as well as abscesses and misalignment. Resorption of the teeth is another typical condition.
These conditions can be agonizing for cats. They are also potentially harmful. In addition to infections, your pet may suffer internal harm if it swallows a broken tooth.
Do They Put Cats Under For Tooth Cleaning?
As you might expect, attempting a deep clean of Fluffy’s teeth while she is awake is not going to work out very well. Most cats will be anesthetized during extensive cleanings or other dental operations. Once your kitty has been diagnosed and evaluated, your veterinarian will be able to provide you with particular information.
What Other Options Do I Have Aside from Brushing My Cat’s Teeth?
Kitties can be very opinionated, and they are notoriously resistant to doing things they dislike, such as taking baths. Getting your cat to accept a toothbrush can be difficult, to say the least. If Fluffy isn’t having it, you might want to consider other solutions.
- Fluffy’s dental treats are designed to eliminate plaque and tartar from her teeth.
- Dental gels can also assist to keep your cat’s teeth clean and prevent uncomfortable dental problems.
- Dental prescription diets may also be a viable choice. Some cats might benefit from dental-formula food. This is typically kibble. However, you should never place your pet on any type of medical diet without first consulting with your veterinarian.
- Dental flakes can be used to keep your pet’s teeth clean. These would be sprinkled over your pet’s meals.
- Another option is to use water additives.
Ask your vet for specific recommendations.
How Do Cats in the Wild Maintain Their Teeth?
Fluffy may be adorable, but she is a predator at heart. In the wild, she ate mice, birds, and other small creatures. Chewing on these bones will keep kittens’ teeth clean in the wild. However, this is not a good alternative for pets. Bones, especially roasted ones, provide a constant choking risk. They can also spread harmful germs.
How Do I Take Care of My Cat’s Teeth?
Brushing is your best option here. This works best if you start while your kitty companion is still a kitten. Ideally, Fluffy will grow up believing that getting her teeth cleaned is just part of being a spoiled pet. You can still train an adult pet to accept the toothbrush. It might take a little longer.
Begin by softly touching your cat’s teeth and gums while petting her. Incorporate compliments and perhaps a treat. Wait until she is at ease with having her mouth touched before proceeding. The next stage is to include a toothbrush or finger toothbrush. You could also just wrap your finger in gauze. Finally, use some cat toothpaste. You can also let Fluffy lick some of her toothpaste from a spoon or your finger. This will help her get acquainted with the flavor and procedure.
Do not try to compel your pet to submit. This might have the opposite effect and scare your furry pal, which is not going to help matters any.
What Are the Signs of Dental Problems in Cats?
Our feline friends are unable to communicate when they are ill. Keep a watch out for any signs of illness.
- Halitosis (Bad Breath)
- Tartar Buildup
- Gums That Bleed, Swell, Or Look Red
- Missing Or Loose Teeth
- Swelling In The Face, Jaw, Or Cheeks
- Not Wanting Face Pets
- Behavioral Alterations
- Drooling
- Reduced Appetite
- Losing Weight
- Problems With Eating
- Pawing At The Mouth
- Chewing On One Side
- Grumpiness
- Withdrawal
- Preferring Softer Food
- Decreased Interest In Play
- Not Grooming
Keep in mind that many of these difficulties can indicate a wide range of medical conditions. If you observe any of these symptoms in your feline buddy, call your Plano, TX veterinarian to schedule an appointment.
Keep Up With Kitty’s Veterinary Care
One of the most important things you can do is keep up with your feline companion’s medical care. This is not just to check your cat’s oral health, but also to maintain track of her entire physical condition. And, while your pet would probably prefer to take another snooze than visit the veterinarian center, she will feel much better with the correct care.
In between visits, keep an eye out for signs of illness. Some of the most common ones are hiding, untidy fur, respiratory problems, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you observe any of these symptoms, contact your Plano, TX veterinarian immediately.
Schedule an Appointment at Our Plano, TX Pet Clinic
Do you have any queries about the health or care of your cat? Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time. As your local Plano, TX pet hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible treatment.
