Cats aren’t big fans of having their teeth and tongue checked, but it’s worth knowing that every now and then you need to pay attention to prevent future problems. Where do you start? First, you’ll need sterile gauze strips or a soft rubber toothbrush, toothpaste made specifically for cats, and a little patience. Let’s go!
We almost always tend to think that dental brushing is more for dogs than for cats, but that’s not true at all! Cats, although extremely clean, also need a little help when it comes to keeping their teeth sparkling. Paying special attention to their teeth can prevent future issues such as tartar buildup, gingivitis, periodontitis, or other more serious conditions.
To start, what you should have on hand is a good cat-specific toothbrush or gauze (these can work as a brush without any problem; just wrap them carefully around your index finger) and a toothpaste made specifically for cats (not human toothpaste!). If it’s your cat’s first time, it’s ideal to start by brushing just one or two teeth, gradually increasing the number session by session. This will help avoid any fear or stress.
How to brush their teeth:
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First, make sure your cat feels relaxed—calmly and with love!
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Gently lift the upper lip and brush the outside of the teeth in a delicate downward motion.
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You can use your thumb and index finger to help your cat open their mouth slightly, always gently.
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Next, brush the inside surfaces of the teeth using the same technique as for the outside.
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When finished: give lots of cuddles and a little water.
How often should you brush their teeth?
This is a tricky question because the routine may vary depending on how much tartar your cat accumulates or how much they tolerate the practice. Ideally, you should do it daily, but brushing 2–3 times a week is enough to maintain proper hygiene.
Always brush with maximum gentleness, and keep in mind that not all cats react the same way. If it becomes impossible, consult your veterinarian so they can evaluate your cat’s teeth and gums and decide whether a professional dental cleaning is necessary.
How to clean your cat’s teeth without getting scratched or chased away?
Ideally, you should get your cat used to this from a young age during the socialization period, so they accept the process positively. But in most cases, we start brushing when the cat is already an adult, so it’s no surprise that they might run away at full speed when they see the brush—or even give you a scratch!
In these cases, it’s best to create a calm environment so your cat feels as comfortable as possible. Positive reinforcement will also be your best ally: use calm, kind words, gentle petting, and praise.
Other dental care tips:
Diet can also help take care of their teeth! For example, dry food can help keep teeth clean because as they chew, the food particles scrape their teeth, acting like a brush and removing plaque.
There are also special treats designed to help fight tartar. Ask at your trusted store, and you’ll see there are plenty of options.
