How to brush your cat’s teeth
Every cat needs clean, sharp teeth and healthy gums. Damage to the tongue, teeth, palate and gums can lead to many health risks for cats, but these can be prevented with regular vet checks and good old-fashioned tooth-brushing!
What You Need
A baby or pet toothbrush that is an appropriate size for your cat; if your cat won’t tolerate that, a small piece of cloth or piece of gauze wrapped around your finger could be used.
Pet toothpaste.
Treat or other reward your cat really likes.
Note: Do not use human toothpaste or baking soda because these can upset their stomach. Toothpaste for cats comes in different flavors, like poultry or beef. You may need to try a couple flavors to find the one your cat likes best. The more your cat likes the toothpaste, the easier it will be brushing.
Technique
Brushing your cat’s teeth should be a bonding experience that is reinforced with praise and rewards. Be very patient, teaching your cat to accept toothbrushing may take a long time. Make the experience enjoyable by rewarding your cat after each session.
You only need to brush the outside of your cat’s teeth (the side facing the cheek). Do only as much at a time as your cat allows. You may not be able to do the whole mouth at first.
If you are worried about being bitten, stop the toothbrush training and speak with your vet about alternative dental care.
Start by letting your cat get used to the toothbrush and paste. Put them out and let your cat sniff them. You can let your cat taste the toothpaste to see if he or she likes it.
Also, get your cat used to you touching his or her mouth. Lift the lips, slowly and gently rub your cat’s teeth and gums with your finger. You might want to dip your finger in something your cat finds tasty, like the juice from a can of tuna.
When your cat is comfortable with you touching the mouth and is familiar with the toothbrush and toothpaste, gradually switch to putting the toothpaste on your finger, and then on the toothbrush.
Let your cat lick the paste off the brush at first to get used to having the brush in the mouth. If your cat won’t tolerate that, a small piece of cloth or piece of gauze (from a first aid kit) wrapped around your finger could be used. Place a small amount of toothpaste on the washcloth and rub it over the outside surfaces of your cat’s teeth.
Brush your cat’s teeth along the gumline. Work quickly, you don’t need to scrub. Work up to 30 seconds of brushing for each side of the mouth at least every other day.
If you notice any problems as you brush, like red or bleeding gums or bad breath, contact your vet. The earlier problems are found, the easier they are to treat.