Dental Hygiene

In the wild your pets's ancestors exercised their teeth by catching prey and chewing the carcass. Our pampered pets however, live on a diet of soft foods, which encourage the development of plaque. This forms on the teeth just below the gum line and causes the accumulation of brown cement called tartar. If left, this tartar allows bacteria to breed causing gum disease (gingivitis) and tooth decay.
If we humans didn't brush our teeth twice daily you can imagine how unhealthy our gums and teeth might be, so it helps if you can brush your pet's teeth. If you start when your pet is young you will stop the tartar cementing on to the teeth. Once the tartar has accumulated only your vet can remove it under general anaesthetic with an ultrasonic dental scaler.

Bad breath (halitosis)
Inflamed gums
Painful eating (your pet will only eat soft foods)

Periodontal disease – Cat

How to Prevent Dental Disease

Regular toothbrushing
Feeding dry foods - these are more abrasive and help exercise your pet's teeth
Cleaning Your Pet's Teeth

 

Regular teeth cleaning is essential to keep your cat's gums free from infection. Start by using a cotton bud, and when your cat is relaxed rub some meat-flavoured toothpaste gently on to the gums. Do this every day for a week or two. Once your cat has become accustomed to having you touch his gums, buy a soft cat toothbrush and with a circular motion brush gently along the gum/teeth margin.

Gingivitis

Inflamed gums are a very common problem in cats and can even affect young cats. Dental problems do lead to gingivitis, but there are other causes of gingivitis ( i.e. in cats are feline leukaemia, feline aids virus and kidney problems ). If your pet is showing red gums and has bad breath in spite of toothbrushing, your vet may need to run some blood tests to check for any underlying disease.

Remember - Prevention is Better than Cure!

ROYAL CANIN Veterinary Diet™ canine Dental

ROYAL CANIN Veterinary Diet™ feline Dental