Brushing Your Cats Teeth to Keep Them Healthy
Periodontal disease is one of the more common diseases that your cat can face. It can cause them a great deal of pain in their mouths and because of this we must do what we can to prevent it from happening. The most effective way to do this is by brushing their teeth. Not many people know that you can brush your cat’s teeth, and that it’s good for them.
Periodontal disease will normally affect the cat’s back and upper teeth more then others. Plaque can build up on the surface of the teeth and under the gum line. When it starts to develop it will only take it about 36 hours to harden into tartar that has no chance of being removed by brushing. Because of this you will need to have your cat’s teeth cleaned professionally before commencing a strict regimen for them. Otherwise it will be useless.
You are going to need a soft-bristled tooth brush and toothpaste for cats – which you can purchase at most veterinary offices. Using baking soda or human toothpastes can give them problems so you need to keep it away from them. Plus veterinary toothpastes have flavors that cats love.
Your cat does not understand this unpleasant cat diseases that could affect it, so it is your job to ease them into it. The best way to get your cat to enjoy this is to give them a treat after you have stopped. Also remember to give them some love and praise. Keep in mind that it will take a couple of days before they are accustomed what you’re doing.
To ease them into it give them a taste of the toothpaste. The next day let them taste the toothpaste as you run your fingers along their upper teeth and gums. Follow the same step – but substitute your finger with a toothbrush the next day. Each day you will be able to cover more ground. Brushing their teeth should take you less then 30 seconds.