How Often Should You Schedule Professional Dental Cleanings for Your Cat?

05 Sep How Often Should You Schedule Professional Dental Cleanings for Your Cat?

Dental health is an often-overlooked aspect of your cat’s overall well-being. While brushing your cat’s teeth at home is helpful, professional dental cleanings by a veterinarian are essential to prevent more serious oral health problems. At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin (VDSWI), we want to help you understand how often your cat should see a veterinary dentist and why these cleanings are so important.

Why Professional Dental Cleanings Matter

Cats are masters at hiding pain, and dental disease can progress silently. Without regular professional care, plaque and tartar buildup can lead to:

1. Gingivitis – inflammation of the gums
2. Periodontal disease – infection of the supporting structures of the teeth
3. Tooth resorption – a painful condition that destroys the tooth
4. Bad breath – often the first noticeable sign for cat owners

Professional dental cleanings involve more than just scaling and polishing. At VDSWI, our specialist-level care includes:

1. Full mouth dental radiographs and a Cone Beam CT scan to detect hidden problems
2. Comprehensive oral exams under anesthesia
3. Treatment planning guided by a board-certified veterinary dentist
4. Cleaning and polishing to remove plaque and tartar safely

How Often Should Your Cat Have a Dental Cleaning?

The frequency of professional dental cleanings depends on your cat’s age, breed, lifestyle, and oral health status. As a general guideline:

1. Kittens & Young Cats (under 3 years old): Usually do not require frequent professional cleanings unless there are specific dental concerns.
2. Adult Cats (3–10 years old): Every 12 months is typical, though cats prone to dental disease may need cleanings every 6–9 months.
3. Senior Cats (10+ years old): Annual or semi-annual cleanings are often recommended, as older cats are more susceptible to dental disease.

Your cat’s veterinarian or veterinary dentist will evaluate your pet’s teeth and gums during regular checkups and can customize a preventive care plan based on their individual needs.

Supporting Dental Health at Home

Professional cleanings are most effective when combined with at-home care. Some ways to support your cat’s dental health include:

1. Regular tooth brushing with a cat-safe toothpaste
2. Dental diets or treats designed to reduce plaque and tartar
3. Providing toys that encourage chewing and help keep teeth clean

Signs Your Cat May Need a Dental Checkup Sooner

Even with regular cleanings, you should bring your cat in for an evaluation if you notice:

1. Persistent bad breath
2. Drooling or difficulty eating
3. Pawing at the mouth or face
4. Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

Schedule a Dental Cleaning for Your Cat at VDSWI

Preventive dental care is one of the best ways to ensure your cat lives a long, healthy, and comfortable life. At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin, our board-certified veterinary dentist and skilled team provide gentle, thorough, and specialized dental care tailored to each cat.

Call us today at 262-622-2537 or request an appointment online to schedule your cat’s professional dental cleaning. Your feline friend will thank you with a brighter smile and a happier mouth!

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (09/05/2025) Photo by Erik-Jan Leusink on Unsplash