Cat dental cleaning
Animal teeth also need care just as much as human teeth. But many people are not used to thinking about it. If your pet chews its toys, that's fine, but sometimes it's not enough to keep your pet completely safe from dental problems. If you know how to take care of your cat's teeth, it will be easier for you to improve their health and save them from dental pain.
How many teeth does a cat have?
Kittens usually have 26 milk teeth, which later turn into 30. A cat's 30 teeth occur at about six months of age. Of these, ten are premolars, four are canines, twelve are incisors, and four are molars. The incisors and canines are usually the most noticeable because they are in front, but the molars and premolars are mainly responsible for chewing - so they are super important for a cat's health.
Necessary accessories
If you prepare for brushing - it will be much easier for you. Not all cats are easy to sit still, although some are quite calm:
- Finger toothbrush. The best way to brush your cat's teeth is to use a small toothbrush. Cats don't have big mouths and very small teeth, so if you want to buy a regular big toothbrush, it will be too big for your cat's mouth.
- Pet toothpaste. Be careful! Toothpaste that people use - may contain dangerous toxins for the cat, although the cat itself would not let you brush their teeth with this toothpaste - they don't like the taste of it at all. That said, toothpastes that are designed specifically for cats are safe, and designed to appeal to their taste buds.
- Treats. Something tasty - like canned food, shrimp, or tuna - is great payback for your cat for enduring the unaccustomed brushing.
- Sedatives. There are certain supplements and medications that can help relax your cat and relieve anxiety and fear. Your cat may feel uncomfortable if this is the first time for her, so supplements can save you the hassle of holding your pet.
- Towel. A towel or blanket is great for tucking your pet in. This way they'll feel more relaxed and you'll be less likely to get scratched if they start pawing away.
Tips for cleaning
Once you've prepared for brushing, you can get started. If your cat is too cranky, call one of your friends. In doing so, don't be overzealous. If the cat cries and struggles too desperately, you don't have to force it. In this case, it is really better to think about soothing supplements. If the cat is calm, then wrap her in a blanket and if possible, restrain her as little as possible so she doesn't feel like a prisoner.
When your cat is ready - give her something tasty to snack on. Keep her head still, apply paste to the brush, run the brush under her gums and start brushing. After you have brushed her teeth a little, give her some more treats and continue brushing again if you are not sure you have brushed all her teeth. Stop if the cat starts struggling and crying.
Not only do dental problems cause serious damage to the cat's body, but the teeth themselves can deteriorate so badly that they have to be removed. Dental problems can be very bad for any body if they are not taken care of in time. You can easily avoid these problems by simply taking care of your cat's teeth.
What happens if you don't brush the cat's teeth?
All animals suffer if food debris and various bacteria accumulate on their teeth. This can lead to infection or inflammation in the mouth. The infection can then get inside and even into the bloodstream through the gums. Because of dental problems, a cat's kidneys, liver, and heart can suffer!