All About Cat Dental Health with Rice Village Animal Hospital
Why is dental care important for my cat?
Dental care is important for your cat because they are very stoic animals and may not always indicate when there's a problem. There are many painful oral issues that cats can experience, which they might hide from us. If these issues go unnoticed, they can affect the cat's overall health, especially if they're not eating well.
How often should I brush my cat's teeth?
If you can brush your cat's teeth, it's best to do it every single day. Start when they're a kitten, as that's the easiest time to get them used to it. Daily brushing helps both you and your cat get into the habit of maintaining their dental health.
What type of toothbrush and toothpaste should I use for my cat?
Use toothbrushes and toothpaste specifically made for cats. Avoid human products, as human toothpaste contains fluoride and the bristles can be too abrasive for their gums. The Veterinary Oral Health Council (vohc.org) has approved products that are safe and effective for cats.
What are the signs of dental problems in cats?
Cats are stoic, so you might not notice many signs. Sometimes, lifting their lip may reveal a funny-looking tooth. Other signs include bad breath, not eating well, dropping food, or vocalizing when eating. Watching their eating behavior is crucial in detecting dental issues.
How can I tell if my cat has a toothache?
If your cat vocalizes when eating, drinks water, or chews on one side of their mouth, they might have a toothache. Cats are stoic and won't always show discomfort, so it's important to observe any drastic changes in behavior.
What are the most common cat tooth infection symptoms?
The most common symptoms include halitosis or bad breath. Other signs can be vocalizing when eating, not eating well, dropping food, or showing a preference for certain foods. These symptoms often indicate a tooth infection.
What are the common dental diseases in cats?
Common dental diseases in cats include periodontal disease, where tartar and plaque form, leading to gingivitis and potential tooth loss. Cats can also have erosive lesions or resorptive lesions, where their body's cells break down the enamel, similar to cavities in humans.
How often should my cat have a professional dental cleaning?
Cats generally need dental cleanings starting at 3 or 4 years old, though some may require it sooner due to genetics. After that, annual cleanings are recommended. Dental cleanings help identify and prevent dental disease, which is common in cats.
What can I do at home to prevent dental disease in my cat?
Brushing your cat's teeth is the best preventative measure. If brushing isn't possible, the VOHC website offers other products like water additives, dental wipes, treats, and prescription cat foods that can help maintain dental health.
Is bad breath in cats always a sign of dental disease?
Bad breath is often a sign of dental disease, although not always. Some oral lesions can only be detected through dental X-rays or when the cat is sedated, as they might not be visible during a regular physical exam.
Can my cat's diet affect their dental health?
There isn't strong evidence that hard food is better than canned food for dental health, except for prescription diets. Prescription diets can help break tartar and contain chemicals that clear bacteria, reducing plaque formation.
What are the risks of not treating dental disease in cats?
Untreated dental disease can lead to bad breath, affect the heart and kidneys, and cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream, resulting in other health issues. It also affects the cat's comfort, as they may hide their discomfort due to their stoic nature.
How can I make brushing my cat's teeth easier?
Start at a young age and reward them to get them used to it. Divide the mouth into four quadrants and brush one at a time. Gradually increase the number of teeth you brush, making it a manageable process for both you and your cat.
Are there any dental treats or toys that can help keep my cat's teeth clean?
Yes, there are dental treats and toys approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. These products have been reviewed by veterinary dentists and can be effective, especially if brushing isn't feasible.
What should I expect during a professional dental cleaning for my cat?
A professional dental cleaning involves anesthesia to protect the cat's airway. The procedure includes scaling tartar, polishing teeth, and taking dental X-rays to identify any issues under the gum line. The process helps ensure thorough cleaning and assessment.
Can cats get cavities and how are they treated?
Cats can get cavities, commonly referred to as resorptive lesions. These occur when their body breaks down the enamel. Treatment usually involves removing the affected tooth, depending on the extent of the disease.
Why is my cat losing teeth?
Cats can lose teeth due to bad dental disease or trauma, such as cat fights or accidents. If teeth are falling out due to disease, it's crucial to address it for the cat's quality of life.
Why would my cat need to have teeth pulled?
Cats may need teeth pulled due to severe dental disease, cavity-like lesions, or trauma from fights or accidents. Removing fractured or diseased teeth helps alleviate discomfort and prevent further health issues.
If you have questions, we would love to answer them for you. Please give us a call at the office at (713) 527-0489, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!
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