Kitty teeth are tiny and mighty, but they’re also magnets for tartar and other problems. The tricky part? These hidden issues can build over time, and cats are masters of disguise when it comes to dental discomfort. Staying one step ahead of dental trouble can keep your cat comfortable and pain-free.
Brushing your kitty’s teeth daily with a cat-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste is ideal. Starting when they’re a kitten makes it easier, since they’re more curious and less crabby. For adult cats, introduce tooth brushing gradually—let them sniff the toothbrush or chew on it a bit! Forcing it never works (they definitely hold grudges.) Brushing twice a week and giving them dental treats is a great starting point. Minties® dental treats for cats freshen breath, fight tartar, and taste amazing!
Cats are experts at pretending there’s nothing wrong. A few subtle red flags to look out for are inflamed gums, drops in mood, avoiding chewing on one side, and bad breath. Notice anything off? Better to call the vet than let it get worse.
Even if your home routine is purr-fect, cats need a professional cleaning every year. Vets can reach the sneaky spots below the gums and look out for common cat problems like gingivitis, periodontitis, and FORL, a common cat disease that causes tooth loss.
Just a few small tweaks to your routine (and of course, some treats) can make a huge difference. Healthy teeth make for a happy cat and fewer surprise vet visits. After all, a sparkling smile will help your cat stay comfortable, playful, and ready for whatever mischief comes next.