Guide to Proper Cat Dental Care

If you own a cat, you are probably more focused on feeding them the right food, using the right litter and offering them lots of toys to keep them entertained. Some people fail to pay attention to their cat’s oral hygiene. But, according to many vets, you are making a big mistake.

Untreated cat dental conditions can lead to gingivitis, cavities and tooth absence. In some severe cases, they can cause heart and kidney infections. Fortunately, you can take several steps to prevent illness and expensive vet bills. Proper cat dental care involves a combination of at-home brushing, specific dietary choices and regular professional veterinary examinations.

What is plaque and tartar in cats?

Plaque is a sticky, colourless deposit that forms over teeth. It usually appears a few hours after a meal. If it’s not removed regularly, it hardens up. You’ve probably seen this as a white layer on your pet’s teeth.

Over time, plaque will build up, harden and turn into tartar or calculus. Tartar is a brown or yellow-coloured deposit on the tooth surface (usually near the gums) and is a perfect home for even more bacterial growth. According to the AVMA, if left untreated, tartar can accelerate dental disease, causing gum and tooth decay, tissue destruction and irreversible bone loss.

Cat dental care at home

Taking care of cat teeth is easy if you have the proper tools. The primary goal of a home routine is to disrupt plaque before it mineralises into tartar. Here’s how you can do it at home:

Use a cat toothpaste and a cat toothbrush

Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly is the best way to keep them healthy. Domesticated cats don’t have the same natural abrasive cleaning that wild felines get from bones and grass.

Brushing several times throughout the week is necessary to maintain proper dental health. A cat toothpaste and a cat toothbrush should be your go-to tools. Never use human toothpaste, as it often contains xylitol or fluoride, which are toxic to felines. If your cat is not used to the process, start by letting them get used to your fingers in their mouth. Reward them with a treat once they accept this. Teeth brushing should be a positive part of their everyday routine, not something forced. Once they are ready, use a cat toothbrush specifically formulated for felines. Adult cats have 30 teeth and it is recommended to brush every single one to prevent decay.

Provide dental treats

If your cat won't allow brushing yet, don't give up. You can use alternative dental products like dental treats. They are designed to remove plaque and protect your cat's dental health. Find a treat with a nice flavour and one your cat will love to chew.

Give your cat a dental diet

Felines suffering from dental diseases can particularly benefit from dental diets. These usually consist of larger kibble pieces that encourage your cat to chew instead of swallowing whole. These pieces remove plaque by rubbing against their teeth. If you are unsure what to buy, consult your vet for recommendations.

Get water additives

Water additives act similarly to a human mouthwash. Depending on the formula, they can be antibacterial and antiseptic to maintain your pet’s mouth health and eliminate bad breath. While helpful, they are not a substitute for daily brushing as they cannot remove existing plaque buildup.

Norwegian kelp powder

Kelp powder has proven to be highly effective in fighting against plaque and tartar buildup. It contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-adhesive properties, meaning that with regular use, this powder can reduce levels of bacteria in your cat’s mouth. Just sprinkle it on top of their food. Using a supplement like Plaque Control for Cats can be a simple, non-invasive addition to your cat's daily dental routine.

Cleaning cat teeth with dental toys

Dental toys work by scraping away tartar and plaque while keeping your pet occupied. Because cats often chew on one side of their mouth, it is best to combine toys with other methods like brushing to ensure all teeth are cleaned.

Professional veterinary dental care

While a home routine is essential, it cannot remove tartar once it has hardened. Professional veterinary intervention is the second, equally important pillar of cat dental health.

A professional clean is performed by a veterinarian under general anaesthesia. This allows the vet to safely and thoroughly remove tartar from areas you cannot reach at home, particularly deep under the gum line, where the most damage occurs. During the process, the vet will also perform a comprehensive oral examination and may take cat dental X-rays to check for hidden issues like tooth resorption.

Vets recommend a professional dental check at least once a year to identify and treat oral health issues before they become painful or lead to systemic disease.

Why is cat dental care important?

Oral hygiene is crucial for felines for the same reasons it is for humans. Neglecting your feline’s dental health leads to fractured teeth, gingivitis and periodontal diseases.

The RSPCA Australia notes that approximately 80% of felines over the age of three develop some form of gum disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can result in painful tooth extractions. Furthermore, bacteria from the plaque can enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to infections in the kidneys, liver or heart.

Cat dental problems: How to spot the first signs?

Cats are masters at hiding pain, so you must be vigilant for subtle changes in their behaviour. Any of the following signs may indicate your pet is struggling with a dental disease:

• Losing teeth
• Bleeding or swollen gums
• Visible tartar
• Excessive drooling
• Difficulty with eating (dropping food or chewing on one side)
• Weight loss
• Bad breath (halitosis is often the first sign of infection)

If you notice these signs, take your cat to the vet immediately. The sooner a condition is diagnosed, the faster your pet will recover.

What are the most common diseases that affect cat teeth?

While a wide range of health issues can affect your pet’s gums and teeth, the following three conditions are the most frequently diagnosed by veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to clean cat teeth?

The most effective method is using a specialised cat toothbrush and cat toothpaste. Brush at least three times a week using gentle, circular motions to disrupt plaque before it hardens.

Is the cat plaque powder safe for all cats? 

Norwegian Kelp is a key ingredient in the Plaque Control for Cats to support cat dental health. However, because kelp is naturally rich in iodine, it may not be suitable for cats with pre-existing thyroid conditions, such as hyperthyroidism. Always consult your vet before adding a kelp-based supplement to your cat's routine if they have underlying health issues.

How often do cats need a professional dental check?

Most veterinarians recommend an exam once a year. Older cats or those prone to dental issues may need a check-up every six months.

References

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): Pet Dental Care Resources
• RSPCA Australia: Dental Care for Dogs and Cats