3 FAQ About Dental Care For Cats
If you're a cat owner, you might be surprised to know that your feline friend should receive dental care from a cat dentist on a regular basis. A cat dentist is a veterinarian that has received formal training in veterinary dentistry.
To know more about why your kitty should see a cat dentist, here are the answers to three frequently asked questions about dental care for cats.
1. When Should Your Cat Receive Dental Care?
Like humans, cats get a buildup of plaque and tartar on their teeth. When this plaque and tartar does not get removed, it can cause gingivitis and periodontal disease. For this reason, your feline friend should see a cat dentist on a regular basis for routine dental cleanings and checkups. If your cat is prone to certain oral health issues, the cat dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings.
The cat dentist can even teach you how to brush your cat's teeth at home. If your cat has problems with plaque, the cat dentist may recommend a special dental diet as well as chew treats that help reduce the buildup of plaque. The sooner you start dental care for your cat, the better chance you have of preventing oral health issues. It's best if you can start dental care for your pet when they are still a kitten.
2. How Do You Know Your Cat Needs Dental Care?
If your cat is drooling, has a decreased appetite, or the gums are swollen or bleeding, you may want to have their teeth examined by a cat dentist. You might also want to bring your feline friend in to a cat dentist if you notice their teeth are discolored, broken, loose, or sitting at an odd angle inside their mouth.
3. What Are the Benefits of Dental Care for Cats?
One of the most important benefits of dental care for cats is that it helps prevent periodontal disease. When a cat gets periodontal disease, they are at an increased chance of losing its teeth. When a cat loses its teeth, it can be harder for them to maintain proper nutrition as they may not be able to eat certain foods. Untreated periodontal disease can also lead to other tooth problems, such as oral pain and infections.
In some instances, infections of the oral cavity can enter the bloodstream, which has the potential to damage the kidneys, heart, and other organs. Besides preventing periodontal disease, another benefit of routine dental care for cats is that it decreases instances of bad breath.
For more information, contact a cat dentist in your area today.
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