Dental Care Guide for Cats

Did you know dental diseases are one of the leading causes of cat health problems? Periodontal disease is one of the top five reasons cats are taken to their veterinarian. Regular dental care for your cat can help fight against periodontal disease, mouth inflammation, and tooth lesions. You can be proactive about your cat's dental health with the use of various dental care products, such as enzymatic toothpaste, dental treats and chews, water additives, and oral rinses.

Clean your cat's teeth
A daily toothbrushing routine is pivotal in preventing dental problems in cats. While it may sound difficult, with time, patience, and persistence it can become a routine just as any other.

• Hold your cat in your lap, wrapped in a towel if needed.
• Use a small finger brush and enzymatic toothpaste.
• Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste on the finger brush and gently ease into your cat's mouth.
• Brush in circles next to the gum line.
• After brushing, give your cat a dental treat like Feline Greenies Dental Treats.

Eliminate bacteria & freshen your cat's breath
Bacteria lives inside your cat's mouth, but did you know it can also be found in your cat's water bowl? Water additives can help kill bacteria in the bowl and dental rinses help freshen your cat's breath and fight plaque. Note: If your cat has unusually bad breath, it could be a sign of an oral disease.

Monitor your cat's oral health
Although regular toothbrushing and water additives can help reduce dental problems, you should also inspect your cat's mouth for potential health concerns, such as:

• Gums that are puffy, red, or bleeding
• Brown or yellow buildup on your cat's teeth
• Teeth that may be missing or loose

If you notice any of the above symptoms, they should be brought to your veterinarian's attention.