Odd Cat Dental Care: The Trend of Brushing Feline Teeth

For humans, dentistry is an actively preventive discipline. From a young age, we're taught the importance of brushing our teeth in the morning and before bed, a practice that seems quite natural. In contrast, veterinary dentistry has not been given the same level of emphasis on proactive prevention. It often lags behind, focusing mainly on reactive treatment, only stepping in when symptoms arise or problems worsen—such as difficulty eating or tooth loss. By then, the oral diseases may have reached an advanced stage, making reversal impossible and leaving no room for regret. Moreover, oral diseases can have a negative impact on internal organs. Many older animals could potentially live longer if they maintained good oral health.

For 99% of people, the thought of brushing a pet cat's teeth is almost unimaginable, let alone considered a necessity. Who would have thought that pets have such needs?

However, when faced with the sad sight of many middleaged and elderly pets with a mouthful of rotten teeth, the selfcomforting idea of "dry kibble dental care" (which is merely a marketing myth) quickly falls apart. Your beloved cat or dog can also suffer from periodontal disease, and it doesn't become any less severe just because they have a shorter lifespan. In fact, their oral health can deteriorate rapidly; it's not uncommon for cats and dogs to develop periodontal disease by the time they are 5 or 6 years old, and it's even more common for them to have tooth decay by 8 or 9 years of age.

So, how can we prevent all this?

The best solution is simple: brushing their teeth.

Next, let's discuss how to brush your cat's teeth effectively.

Preparation for Brushing

Before you start brushing your cat's teeth, you'll need to gather some essential tools, such as a catspecific toothbrush and toothpaste. Additionally, timing is crucial when brushing your cat's teeth to avoid making them dislike the process.

Selecting the Right Environment

Cats are naturally shy, so it's important to choose a quiet and comfortable setting for their dental care. A noisy environment can easily scare your cat, leading to a negative association with the brushing process.

Picking the Right Brush and Paste

Choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste is key. Generally, a smallheaded brush is recommended for cats, as it allows for better access to their teeth. And when it comes to toothpaste, opt for a petspecific formula.

Preparation and Comforting

Before you begin, it's essential to prepare your cat mentally. Start by gently touching their teeth with your fingers, then slowly open their mouth, and finally brush their teeth with toothpaste on the brush.

Reward After Completion

Cats are active creatures, and brushing their teeth requires a lot of patience. Once your cat accepts the brushing, remember to reward them afterward. This positive reinforcement will help your furry friend view dental care as a good thing!