Dealing with Cat Bad Breath, Tartar, and Loss of Appeti

What is Periodontal Disease?

Did you know that 70% of cats under the age of 3 suffer from periodontal disease? This is the most common clinical symptom in adult cats, leading to a variety of oral health issues. In severe cases, it can even affect a cat's internal organs, causing damage to the heart, kidneys, liver, brain, and bladder.

Periodontal disease in cats is caused by bacteria on the tooth surface, which leads to the accumulation of white blood cells and bacterial infections. These bacteria, food particles, and saliva combine to form plaque. After 24 hours, this plaque matures into tartar, and the minerals in saliva harden it, creating calculus.

It might sound complicated, but it's quite similar to what happens to us humans if we don't brush our teeth regularly. Food particles left on the teeth can lead to cavities, and over time, they can affect the gums and the nerves connected to them, causing severe pain and discomfort. That's why we often say, "A toothache is a pain in the neck!"

So, what about our feline friends? If tartar builds up on a cat's teeth and is not addressed promptly, it can lead to tooth inflammation and damage the cat's immune system, causing redness and inflammation in the gums. This cannot be ignored!

When tooth inflammation becomes irreversible, the only option may be tooth extraction. Imagine a young kitten having to have its teeth pulled out due to poor care – it's terrifying!

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Halitosis (this is often the first and easiest symptom noticed by cat owners who feed their cats dry food)

Swollen gums

Bleeding gums

Discolored teeth

Inability to eat or chew food normally

Blood in the water bowl or while chewing

Blood in saliva

Loosened teeth

Reluctance to have the head touched

Sneezing or nasal discharge

These are just some of the symptoms of periodontal disease. For a definitive diagnosis, it's essential to consult a professional veterinarian. If your cat shows any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible.

Common Oral Examinations by Veterinarians

1. During a physical examination, veterinarians often open the cat's mouth to observe the presence of plaque and tartar.

2. However, if a dental cleaning is necessary, it must be done under anesthesia, with professional scaling and polishing, and an assessment of each tooth's growth.

3. In some cases, Xrays may be necessary for a detailed examination.

How to Prevent Periodontal Disease

Regular dental care is the best way to prevent periodontal disease. This includes monitoring the cat's diet, using mouthwashes, and encouraging chewing to clean residual food particles. There are many methods, but the most important is the consistency and patience of the owner.

It's recommended to start familiarizing cats with toothbrushes and toothpaste from around 45 months of age. If your cat is already an adult, be patient and cultivate this habit. Also, schedule a detailed periodontal examination with a veterinarian and follow their advice. Never force or arbitrarily brush your cat's teeth, as this can cause them to dislike the process and strain your relationship.

How to Brush Your Cat's Teeth

1. Choose the Right Time

Brush your cat's teeth when they are most relaxed, such as when they first wake up, after a bath, or when they are particularly affectionate.

Observing your cat's mood is also part of the parent's homework. If your cat struggles a lot, you can wrap them in a large towel or blanket. If they are extremely nervous, it's best to try again at a different time, as maintaining the relationship is most important.

During the familiarization process, you may encounter various setbacks and failures. However, over time, cats will come to accept this as an unavoidable part of their routine.

2. Daily or Regular Brushing

Just like us humans, daily brushing is the best choice. If you're busy or your cat resists, you can opt for regular brushing (23 times a week).

Plaque can harden into tartar within 2448 hours if not removed, leading to inflammation and more significant issues.

3. Choosing the Right Brush

There are many types of toothbrushes available online, including finger brushes, toothbrushes, and tartar removers.

Never use human toothbrushes and toothpaste, as cats have small teeth, and human brushes can damage their gums!

4. Brushing Techniques

During the initial familiarization phase, you can use a finger brush to gently wipe your cat's teeth, being careful with the pressure.

Then, try applying toothpaste to the finger brush and let your cat lick it, to see if they like the taste. Cat toothpaste is edible!

Next, apply toothpaste or treats (like cat chews) to the toothbrush and let your cat lick it. Finally, get them used to the sensation of the toothbrush in their mouth.

Patience is key at every step!

TIPS:

Lift your cat's upper lip, place the toothbrush on the tooth surface, and think about how you brush your own teeth. Angle the brush and teeth at 45°, and brush in small circles, covering all surfaces of the teeth.

Important Notes:

When you start brushing, if your cat has gum inflammation, some bleeding is normal. However, if there is consistent bleeding, be cautious. It could be that you're brushing too hard or that your cat's inflammation is severe. In that case, it's essential to visit the veterinarian immediately, as your cat is telling you it's uncomfortable!

Remember, don't bite off more than you can chew. Start with small sections and gradually work your way through the mouth. Focus on the canines and premolars, and don't worry about the inside of the teeth; their tongues are naturally cleaning agents.

During training, offer small treats or distract your cat to keep them engaged. Your small steps are a big deal for your cat!