Why Cats Need to Brush Their Teeth: Essential Grooming

Why Should Cats Brush Their Teeth?

Contrary to the popular myth that cats eating dry food don't need their teeth brushed, it's a colossal misconception! Cats over the age of 3 often suffer from periodontal disease. Cats with this condition may find it difficult to chew on their food, leading to discomfort in their mouths and a decrease in appetite. This, in turn, can weaken their bodies!

Longterm neglect of dental care can lead to the formation of tartar in your cat's mouth. If left unchecked, oral issues can escalate over time, becoming increasingly severe.

There have been recent reports of tragic incidents where cats have passed away after undergoing dental cleaning procedures. It's important to note that dental cleaning is not recommended for cats, as they can experience stress. Therefore, it's best to start brushing your cat's teeth while their oral health is still in good condition!

Timing

The recommended time to start brushing your cat's teeth is around 8 months after their teeth have fully grown in. However, it's never too early to start building good habits. You can begin introducing your kitten to the process at around 3 months of age, simply by letting them get accustomed to the sensation.

Preparation Tools

01. Choose a Tasty Toothpaste

All pet toothpastes are edible, but the besttasting one we've found is from the French brand维克. Just apply a little to your hand, and your cat will be all too eager to lick it off. It's amazing how it can eliminate bad breath! One tube of toothpaste can last a year of daily brushing!

02. Select a Comfortable Toothbrush

Our experiments have shown that the best toothbrushes for cats are actually those designed for infants. They have soft bristles that won't cause bleeding, and some models even come with a vibration feature. The best part is that they have a small light that allows you to see even the molars clearly.

03. Reward Your Cat to Establish Positive Reinforcement

Offering a treat after brushing can make your cat look forward to their dental hygiene routine with excitement!

Common Concerns

Is this cruel to the cat? I see my cat looking unhappy while brushing its teeth!

Forcing your cat into a brushing session without regard for its comfort or resistance, and then hitting it if it fights back, is indeed cruel. Cats, like humans, need to be introduced to dental care gradually.

It's a necessary routine!

Why does my cat's mouth bleed after brushing?

Observe the roots of your cat's teeth. If there are obvious red lines, it may indicate gingivitis.