25 Oct Do Cats Need Their Teeth Cleaned?
Why are cat dental cleanings important? Dental care is often overlooked when it comes to keeping our pets healthy. However, periodontal disease is prevalent among companion animals, including cats. Dental disease can silently affect your cat’s overall health, causing pain, discomfort, and serious complications if left untreated. Knowing this, let’s examine why cats need their teeth cleaned regularly.
Why Cats Are Prone to Dental Issues
Cats, like dogs, are prone to developing plaque and tartar on their teeth. Plaque forms when food particles and bacteria accumulate on the surface of the teeth, which hardens into tartar if not removed. This build-up can lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and even tooth loss over time.
Unlike dogs, cats tend to be less active in chewing on objects, which means they don’t have the natural teeth-cleaning benefits of chewing on toys or other items. This lack of chewing activity allows food debris and plaque to stay on their teeth longer, making them more susceptible to dental issues.
Understanding Periodontal Disease in Cats
Periodontal disease starts with mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) but can progress to more severe conditions that affect the supporting structures of the teeth, including the surrounding tissues and bone. When plaque and tartar remain on the teeth, the bacteria they harbor can cause infection below the gum line, leading to:
- Tooth pain and sensitivity
- Tooth loss
- Abscesses
- Systemic health issues (bacteria can enter the bloodstream, affecting organs like the heart and kidneys)
Because cats are skilled at hiding discomfort, dental problems can go unnoticed until they are in the advanced stages. This is why routine dental care and regular veterinary check-ups are so important.
Signs Your Cat May Need a Dental Cleaning
While it’s best to stay proactive, here are some signs that your cat may already be suffering from dental issues:
- Bad breath
- Drooling
- Difficulty eating or chewing on one side
- Pawing at the mouth
- Red or swollen gums
- Yellow or brown tartar buildup
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to consult your veterinarian.
The Importance of Professional Cat Dental Cleanings
Professional dental cleanings are important for your cat’s oral health. These cleanings, performed under anesthesia, allow your veterinarian to thoroughly clean above and below the gumline, removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria. This prevents the progression of periodontal disease and helps maintain your cat’s overall well-being.
Additionally, your veterinarian can identify other oral health issues during cleanings, such as tooth resorption, a common but painful condition in cats in which the tooth structure breaks down and needs to be addressed. A thorough examination and diagnostics like X-rays and CT scans can find and address potential problems sooner.
How to Support Your Cat’s Dental Health at Home
To help keep your cat’s teeth clean between professional cleanings, you can:
- Brush your cat’s teeth with a cat-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste
- Provide dental chews specifically designed for cats
- Offer food and treats that help reduce plaque and tartar
Brushing is always going to be the most effective way of removing plaque and tarter, and keeping their teeth healthy.
Conclusion
Just like us, cats need regular dental care to stay healthy. While they may not show symptoms until the disease is advanced, dental problems in cats can lead to significant health issues. Regular veterinary dental cleanings and at-home care can ensure that your cat maintains a healthy mouth and a happy life.
So, do cats need their teeth cleaned? Absolutely! Taking care of their dental health is important to being a responsible pet owner and ensuring your feline companion lives a long, comfortable life.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (10/25/2024) Image by Birgit from Pixabay