Leading animal welfare charity Cats Protection has issued a stark health alert to all cat owners across the UK, urging them to take action against a 'widespread' issue affecting felines.
The Widespread Problem: Feline Dental Disease
The charity emphasised that dental issues are widespread in cats. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to painful conditions, expensive veterinary cleaning, and even teeth removal. The most effective preventative measure, according to experts, is regular tooth brushing.
In a Facebook plea, the charity advised: "The idea of brushing your cat's teeth might seem like a difficult feat, but you can slowly train your cat to get used to it." They stress that brushing is the best way to avoid complex and stressful dental procedures later in a cat's life.
How and When to Start Brushing Your Cat's Teeth
Training should ideally begin when a cat is still a kitten, even before their adult teeth come in at around six to nine months old. Starting young helps create a positive association with having their mouth handled.
Cats Protection recommends a step-by-step approach using positive reinforcement. The charity's advice is clear: "Use positive reinforcement to get them used to it." This involves rewarding calm behaviour with treats or affection, building up to using a toothbrush gradually.
However, they assure owners it's never too late to start. A crucial first step is a veterinary check-up to ensure the cat isn't already in dental pain, as attempting to brush sore teeth will hinder training.
Essential Tips for Successful Cat Dental Care
Once your cat is comfortable, aim to brush their teeth at the same time daily. Cats thrive on routine, so a consistent schedule followed by a play session or fuss can help.
The charity issues a critical warning: never use human toothpaste. The fluoride and other ingredients can be toxic to cats. Owners must use specially formulated cat toothpaste, which is safe to swallow and often comes in appealing flavours like chicken or fish to make the process easier.
If a cat becomes stressed or tries to escape during brushing, owners should stop immediately. Forcing the issue will make future attempts more difficult. Patience and consistency are key to protecting your cat's long-term dental health and overall wellbeing.
