Just like humans, cats need to take care of their teeth and gums in order to maintain good oral health. Unfortunately, this can be difficult to do on your own, and many pet owners don’t know how to properly care for their cat’s teeth. But don’t worry – I’m here to help! In this article, I’ll list ten ways you can care for your cat’s teeth and gums without a vet visit. Let’s get started!
As any cat owner knows, cats are prone to developing dental problems as they age. However, what many people don’t realize is that dental disease can have serious consequences for a cat’s health. When pockets of bacterial pus form under the gums, they can release toxins into the blood.
These toxins can damage the heart, kidneys, and other internal organs. In addition, dental disease can lead to pain and difficulty eating. As a result, it is important to be aware of the signs of dental disease and to take steps to prevent it.
Learn More About Cats Here: The Ultimate Guide To Pet Care
Best Methods of Daily Oral Health Care for Your Cat
There are several things you can do on a daily basis to help keep your cat’s teeth and gums healthy.
1). Feed your cat a high-quality diet:
A diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates will help reduce plaque formation and keep your cat’s teeth clean. In addition, a high-quality diet will provide your cat with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and maintain a healthy weight.
Cats who are overweight are at risk for health problems such as diabetes and joint pain.
By feeding your cat a high-quality diet, you can help them stay healthy and avoid these serious health problems.
Learn More About Cat Food: Best Diabetic Cat Foods and Tips on Feeding
2). Give your cat crunchy treats:
Plaque buildup is one of the main culprits behind these problems, and it can be difficult to remove without professional dental care. However, there are a few things you can do at home to help keep your cat’s teeth clean and healthy.
One of the best things you can do is to give them crunchy treats that require chewing. This helps to remove plaque from the teeth and can also keep the gums healthy.
Just be sure to choose treats that are specifically designed for cats, as some human foods can be harmful to their health. With a little effort, you can help your cat enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.
3). Brush your cat’s teeth:
Daily brushing is the best way to remove plaque and prevent dental disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed specifically for cats, or a gauze pad wrapped around your finger. Be sure to use only pet-safe toothpaste – never use human toothpaste, as it can be toxic to cats.
4). Use oral wipes:
Good dental hygiene is important for your cat’s overall health, and oral wipes are a convenient way to help keep their teeth clean. Simply wipe the cloth along the surface of their teeth, and the plaque will adhere to the fabric.
You can then dispose of the wipe and move on to the next tooth. Oral wipes are safe for cats of all ages, and they can be used as often as needed. In addition, they are relatively inexpensive and easy to find at most pet stores.
5). Give your cat dental chews:
Dental chews made specifically for cats are a great way to reduce plaque and tartar build-up. These chews usually contain enzymes that help break down plaque and tartar, as well as ingredients that help freshen breath.
Additionally, dental chews can be a great way to keep your cat occupied and distracted from harmful chewing habits, such as chewing on electrical cords.
So if you’re looking for a way to help keep your cat’s smile healthy and bright, consider giving them some dental chews.
6). Feed your cat wet food:
Wet food is a great option for cats because it contains a high level of moisture. This is important because it helps keep the cat hydrated, something that is difficult to do with dry food. In addition, wet food is easier on the teeth and gums than dry food. It’s also closer to the cat’s natural diet and contains all the nutrients that a cat needs. As a result, wet food should be an integral part of your cat’s diet.
Also, You Need To Know About 15 Dangerous and Toxic Human Foods That Cats Can’t Eat
7). Give your cat water:
Water helps rinse away plaque and debris from the teeth and gums. Offer your cat a bowl of fresh, clean water to drink each day.
Learn More: How to Choose the Best Cat Water Fountain or Bubbler
8). Take your cat to the vet for regular check-ups:
Your vet can check for signs of dental disease and recommend treatment if necessary.
9). Have your cat’s teeth cleaned professionally:
This should be done by a veterinarian or a qualified veterinary technician.
10). Spay or neuter your cat:
Cats that are spayed or neutered have a reduced risk of developing dental problems.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your cat’s teeth and gums healthy and avoid potential health problems down the road.
Preventing Future Problems
Although brushing your cat’s teeth is the only proven method to prevent significant buildup, there are other ways to ensure your cat’s oral health. You can test the microbiome of your cat’s oral cavity with the Basepaws company.
This test includes the DNA test, which will help you determine which bacteria are present in your cat’s mouth. You can then use this information to decide which products to use to keep your cat’s mouth healthy.
In addition, you can also ask your vet about other products that can help prevent oral buildup in cats.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your cat stays healthy and free from oral problems.
Read More: Taking Care of Your Senior Cat at Home When No Vet Is Available
