Do Cats Need Their Teeth Cleaned​

Just like humans, cats require regular dental care to maintain healthy teeth and gums. However, the idea of cleaning a cat’s teeth may seem foreign to many pet owners. Cats are known for their self-grooming behavior, but oral hygiene is one area where they need our assistance. Neglecting your cat’s dental health can lead to a variety of problems, including periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even systemic health issues. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to cats' teeth cleaning.

Do Cats Need Their Teeth Cleaned?

Yes, cats do need their teeth cleaned to prevent dental issues. Cats may not eat sugary foods like humans, but they are still prone to dental issues, primarily due to plaque and tartar buildup. If daily brushing for cats is not feasible, aim for at least two to three times a week. Without regular cleaning, plaque hardens into tartar, which can cause gum inflammation (gingivitis) and eventually lead to periodontal disease—a condition where the structures supporting the teeth are damaged.

The consequences of poor dental hygiene in cats can be severe:

• Gingivitis:
  Inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup, which can lead to discomfort and bad breath.
• Periodontal Disease:
  A more advanced stage of gum disease where the infection reaches the bones and connective tissues that hold the teeth in place. This condition can lead to tooth loss and pain.
• Tooth Resorption:
  A common condition in cats where the tooth structure breaks down and is reabsorbed by the body, leading to pain and tooth loss.
• Systemic Health Issues:
  Poor dental health can lead to systemic infections as bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream and potentially damage internal organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Cats often hide pain and discomfort, which makes it difficult for owners to detect dental problems early. Regular teeth cleaning helps prevent these conditions, keeping your cat comfortable and healthy.

Common Dental Issues in Cats

Cats are susceptible to several dental problems, including:

Plaque and Tartar:
Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. When it mineralizes, it turns into hard tartar, which can irritate the gums and cause infections.

Gingivitis:
This inflammation of the gums is common in cats and can cause pain, swelling, and bleeding.

Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions (FORLs):
A painful condition where the cat’s body starts breaking down the structure of the teeth. It’s a leading cause of tooth loss in cats.

Tooth Decay:
While less common in cats than in humans, tooth decay can occur due to poor oral hygiene or underlying health issues.

Stomatitis:
A severe and painful inflammation of the entire mouth, often requiring tooth extractions for relief.

Signs That Your Cat May Need Dental Care

Cats are known for masking signs of discomfort, but there are certain behaviors and symptoms that may indicate your cat is experiencing dental issues. Keep an eye out for:

• Bad Breath:
  While a mild odor is normal, persistent bad breath (halitosis) can be a sign of dental disease.
• Difficulty Eating:
  Cats with dental problems may drop food from their mouths, chew on only one side, or avoid eating hard food altogether.
• Pawing at the Mouth:
  If your cat paws at its mouth or shows signs of discomfort when eating, it could be experiencing dental pain.
• Red or Bleeding Gums:
  Inflamed or bleeding gums are clear signs of gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease.
• Loose or Missing Teeth:
  Cats with poor dental hygiene may lose teeth over time due to infections or resorption.
• Excessive Drooling:
  Dental pain can cause your cat to drool excessively, sometimes with traces of blood in the saliva.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to have your cat evaluated by a veterinarian. Early intervention can prevent the progression of dental disease.

How to Clean Your Cat’s Teeth

Cleaning your cat’s teeth may seem daunting, but it’s an essential part of maintaining their overall health. Here are the key steps:

1. Get the Right Supplies

You’ll need a cat-specific toothbrush or a soft-bristled human toothbrush and cat-safe toothpaste. Human toothpaste is harmful to cats because it contains ingredients like fluoride that can be toxic if ingested.

2. Introduce the Toothbrush Slowly

It’s important to ease your cat into the process. Start by allowing your cat to sniff and lick the toothbrush to get used to it. Let them taste the toothpaste as well—many cat toothpastes come in flavors like chicken or fish to make the process more appealing.

3. Gradually Brush Your Cat’s Teeth

Begin by gently lifting your cat’s lips to expose the teeth and gums. Using the toothbrush, make gentle circular motions on the teeth, focusing on areas where plaque is likely to accumulate (around the gum line). Start with a few seconds per session and gradually increase the time as your cat gets more comfortable.

4. Reward Your Cat

After each session, reward your cat with praise, a favorite toy, or a small treat. This positive reinforcement will help make future brushing sessions easier.

5. Establish a Routine

Ideally, you should brush your cat’s teeth daily. If that’s not feasible, aim for at least two to three times a week. The more consistently you brush, the better the results will be in preventing plaque and tartar buildup.

Alternative Dental Care Options

In addition to brushing, there are other methods to support your cat’s dental health:

• Dental Treats and Chews:
  These are designed to reduce plaque buildup by encouraging your cat to chew, which naturally helps clean the teeth.
• Water Additives:
  Certain water additives contain enzymes that help reduce bacteria and plaque in your cat’s mouth.   
• Dental Toys:
  Some toys are specifically designed to promote chewing and help remove plaque from your cat’s teeth.

Professional Dental Cleanings

Even with regular brushing, professional dental cleanings are essential for keeping your cat’s teeth healthy. These cleanings, performed by a veterinarian under general anesthesia, allow for thorough removal of plaque and tartar that may be difficult to reach at home.

During a professional cleaning, the vet will:

• Perform a full oral examination.
• Remove plaque and tartar from the teeth.
• Polish the teeth to prevent future buildup.
• Take dental X-rays to assess the health of the roots and surrounding bone.
• Extract any severely damaged or infected teeth.

Professional cleanings should be done at least once a year, though the frequency may vary depending on your cat’s individual dental health.

The Benefits of Regular Dental Care for Cats

Maintaining your cat’s dental health offers numerous benefits:

1. Prevents Pain and Discomfort:
Regular cleaning helps prevent dental diseases that can cause pain and discomfort.

2. Improves Overall Health:
Dental disease can lead to infections that affect the heart, kidneys, and liver. Proper dental care helps protect your cat’s entire body.

3. Freshens Breath:
Regular cleaning reduces the buildup of bacteria that cause bad breath.

4. Saves Money:
Preventive care is often more affordable than treating advanced dental disease, which may require expensive surgeries or tooth extractions.  

5. Prolongs Your Cat’s Life:
Cats with healthy teeth and gums tend to live longer, as they are less prone to the systemic infections that arise from untreated dental issues.

FAQs about Cat Dental Care

How often should I brush my cat's teeth?

Ideally, you should brush your cat’s teeth every day. If that’s not possible, aim for at least two to three times a week to prevent plaque buildup.

Can I use human toothpaste to clean my cat's teeth?

No, human toothpaste contains ingredients that are toxic to cats. Always use toothpaste formulated specifically for cats, which is safe for them to swallow.

What are the signs that my cat has dental disease?

Signs include bad breath, difficulty eating, red or swollen gums, excessive drooling, and pawing at the mouth. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian.

Do indoor cats need dental care?

Yes, indoor cats are just as susceptible to dental issues as outdoor cats. Plaque and tartar can build up regardless of lifestyle, so regular dental care is essential for all cats.

How much does a professional cat dental cleaning cost?

The cost of a professional dental cleaning can range from $200 to $800, depending on factors such as location, the complexity of the procedure, and whether any teeth need to be extracted.

Conclusion

Dental care is an often-overlooked aspect of feline health, but it plays a crucial role in preventing pain, discomfort, and systemic health issues. Regular brushing, professional cleanings, and the use of dental chews and toys can go a long way in maintaining your cat’s oral hygiene. By being proactive about your cat’s dental health, you can help ensure they lead a long, healthy, and comfortable life.