Effective Solutions for Cat Dental Calculus Removal

Understanding the Causes of Tartar and Plaque in Cats

Tartar and plaque in cats are formed due to the diligent activities of various microorganisms, resulting in calcified deposits. Visually, tartar appears as a dense, pale yellow spot, feeling hard to the touch. This yellowish spot begins to form during a cat's early years. Initially, plaque consists of saliva and bacteria left on the teeth' surface. Over time, this thin film thickens and hardens, developing brownish shadows that concentrate on the canines and premolars, gradually growing larger. A cat's plaque is a complete microbial community, with its active enzymes providing favorable conditions for the chemical reactions between the animal's saliva and calcium, leading to the formation of tartar. Apart from its unappealing appearance, a cat's plaque can also lead to gingivitis and periodontitis.

The primary reasons for the occurrence of tartar and plaque in cats include the animal's "refined" diet, which mainly consists of soft foods, abnormal salt metabolism, poor oral hygiene, and dental misalignment.

What to Do If Your Cat Has Periodontal Disease?

If your cat has early gingivitis (a red line on the gums above the teeth), you can follow your veterinarian's advice to take antibiotics or apply iodine glycerin to the inflamed area. At the same time, pay attention to oral care, brush your cat's teeth, and wipe its mouth with a gauze pad after meals.

Brushing is an action that helps prevent bacteria from attaching to the teeth, thereby inhibiting the formation of plaque. Believe me, brushing can effectively compensate for the shortcomings of highquality foods like canned food and homemade meat.

Even if you feed your cat raw food, you still need to brush its teeth. This is because many people only give their cats small pieces of meat, which is not as effective as chewing on bonein meat. Cats that eat raw food can occasionally take a break, brushing their teeth every two or three days.

How Often Should You Clean Your Cat's Teeth at Home, and What Should You Be Aware Of?

Humans are theoretically recommended to have their teeth cleaned every six months to one year. However, due to the higher risk associated with general anesthesia, it is not advisable to clean a cat's teeth frequently.

Before the procedure, to prevent vomiting and aspiration during anesthesia, we strongly recommend that you do not feed your cat anything for at least 8 hours before the surgery.

How to Prevent Tartar in Cats?

Cats are naturally equipped to clean their teeth through mechanical chewing. Occasionally giving your cat meat chunks to chew can gently remove tartar from their teeth.

When choosing cat food, opt for highmeat content options with food that is not too soft or too finely ground. This helps protect the cat's immune system and prevent oral inflammation. Additionally, ensure your cat drinks plenty of water, as it can wash away minerals that precipitate in the oral saliva.

Various herbal spray agents available on the market can also help reduce tartar buildup. Spray your cat's teeth 12 times a week to greatly assist in balancing the oral flora.

Just like humans, regular dental care is equally important for cats. Regularly brushing your cat's teeth and providing highprotein, lowcarbohydrate cat food can effectively prevent or reduce the risk of tartar formation.

If your cat's teeth have brownish deposits or if it has a strong cat breath, it's time to seek professional dental care from a veterinarian.

Tip: Click on "What to Do If Your Cat Has Bad Breath and Dislikes Eating Due to Tartar" to learn more about tartar in cats.