Many pets owners can spot their pet's health issues right away. One health problem that may not be so easy to find is dental disease. Cats, just like humans, can have problems with their teeth. As cats age, most do have some form of periodontal disease. Only a vet can tell for certain, but there are things that you can look for when you suspect dental problems with your cat.Many vets would agree that dental problems can stem from other sorts of health issues and should not be ignored. Proper health check ups with the veterinarian and spot dental problems before they get out of hand, In addition, there are several steps you can take as a pet owner to help your cat have healthy teeth and gums.
To help your cat's teeth stay in top shape, there are several things you can do. First, make sure your cat sees the vet, sick or not, once a year for a health exam. The veterinarian will be able to spot dental problems during annual exams. Your vet will look for bad breath, tooth decay, and missing teeth. All of these can point to more serious issues.
Another way to help your kitty have healthy teeth is to brush your cat's teeth. Yes, there are special toothbrushes and paste that will help your kitty keep his or her teeth healthy. Daily brushing is recommended, but for most cats, twice a week will suffice. Most pet stores carry cat toothbrushes and soft rubber brushes that fit on your finger. If your cat is reluctant, try to do only a small portion of the mouth at first and then add more each day. If you have a kitten, start brushing his or her teeth very early to get used to the routine. There are specially made toothpastes that are available. Most cats enjoy the taste and will think of brushing as a treat.
One product that is available to help keep kitty's mouth healthy is specially made rinses. These are good for older cats and cats that already have dental issues. These special rinses come in antiseptic gels, rinses and flavored sprays. It is not recommended to use these instead of brushing, but the rinse will help with tooth decay.Just as dogs can benefit from chewing so can cats. There are numerous products available for cats to chew to help their teeth and gums. Some are flavored with fish or poultry, which appeals to most cats.
