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Kitty Dental Issues

May 15, 2019

Did you know that our feline friends can suffer from a variety of painful dental problems? Keeping Fluffy’s mouth healthy is very important! However, many people inadvertently overlook this crucial aspect of kitty care. Read on as a local Roanoke, VA vet offers some advice on caring for your cat’s teeth.

Common Issues

Cats can develop many of the same problems as people can. Gum disease is not unusual in kitties. Fluffy can also be afflicted by misalignments, abscesses, and cracked or broken teeth. Feline stomatitis, a painful mouth infection, is another common problem. Another issue that cats often develop is tooth resorption.

Signs of Dental Issues

Fluffy can’t tell you if her teeth hurt, so you’ll need to watch for symptoms. Drooling is a common one. Bad breath is another red flag. Your kitty may chew on one side of her mouth, start preferring softer foods, or take longer eating. You may notice visible tartar buildup or swelling. There are also some behavioral markers to look for, such as hiding, withdrawal, grumpiness, and uncharacteristic behavior or vocalizations. Call your vet right away if you notice any of these warning signs.

Brushing

Believe it or not, you can brush Fluffy’s teeth without ending up in the ER. Maybe. It’s best to start when your feline buddy is young, so she gets used to having her teeth brushed early. The big thing is to make sure your furball knows that she’s being pampered. Pick a time when your cat is on your lap, and start gently touching her teeth and gums. Tell Fluffy she’s a good kitty, and pet her. If she gets uneasy, just stop. Keep doing this until your furry pal is used to the idea. The next step is to start using pet toothpaste. Eventually, you can incorporate a kitty toothbrush. You can also just wrap your finger in gauze.

Other Options

Not having any luck brushing your cat’s teeth? There are other ways to keep your little buddy’s mouth healthy. Ask your vet about oral rinses. Dental-formula kibble and treats can also be beneficial. Finally, make sure that Fluffy always has clean, fresh water. This is important for many reasons, but it’s crucial to your feline pal’s oral health.

Please reach out to us, your local Roanoke, VA vet clinic, for all of your kitty’s veterinary care needs. We are always happy to help!

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