It is a sad fact that many otherwise well cared for domestic cats suffer from a lack of good cat dental health care.
Most cat owners realize that although cats are a fairly low maintenance choice of pet, they do need a certain amount of looking after. But when it comes to their cat's dental hygiene they just don't reason that kitty needs any help in looking after her teeth and gums.
Perhaps that view is understandable. After all, cats in the wild do not visit a veterinarian for a cat dental health check they just get on with survival and hunting for prey. And there lies the answer.
A domestic cat does not lead the same lifestyle as did her wild ancestors. A wild cat's teeth had to rip through the skin and bones of prey for every meal. This prevented tartar and plaque building up on the cat's teeth. The food that we feed our cats today may be packed with the right nutrients but it does little to safeguard our pets dental well being.
Some sources recommend crunchy dried cat food for keeping cats teeth clean, but others point out that kibble is not a substitute for the skin and bone of live prey and will do little to maintain dental health.
A cat needs the help of both its human and a veterinarian for its dental hygiene.
If your cat has never had her teeth cleaned it is very possible that she has an accumulation of plaque and tartar. This accumulation can cause your cat many heath problems. Not only tooth loss, infection and gum disease, but infections can be carried by the blood stream to other areas causing many serious conditions.
It is in no way easy to inspect a cat's mouth for signs of dental problems. It can be done with a very co-operative cat but do not risk being bitten.
It is best to ask your veterinarian to check for problems. He, or she, will clean your cat's teeth and carry out any necessary work.
Your veterinarian will likely advise you on cleaning your kitty's teeth to prevent further build up and promote good cat dental health. Yes, you can clean the teeth of your cat. It does need patience and perseverance but it can be done. Cat toothbrushes are available from your veterinarian or pet suppliers. Don't use an ordinary toothbrush on your cat's teeth, they are too harsh and not the right shape. Special flavored pet toothpaste is also available.
Regularly cleaning your cat's teeth will mean that she will need less dental treatment from the veterinarian. It will also mean less chance of eating problems, less chance of serious illness, more chance of a longer life and, as a bonus, fresher breath for your kitty.
No comments:
Post a Comment