Healthy Teeth are PAWSOME!

Cats Need Their Teeth Brushed Too.

You wouldn’t allow your children to go a week without brushing their teeth because you know poor oral health can result in dental disease or even a more serious health issue. Did you know the same could be said for your cat?

The Cornell Feline Health Center* estimates 50%-90% of cats older than 4 have some type of dental disease that is treatable and preventable if your cat receives preventative dental care. And, according to PetMD, brushing your cat’s teeth 2 to 3 times a week can help avoid serious dental disease.**

Here are a few easy steps PetMD recommends to keep your kitty’s teeth healthy:

• Develop a routine. Brush your cat’s teeth right after you brush your own teeth.

• Only use toothpaste developed for cats (many prefer seafood-flavored brands).

• Provide treats that can also help reduce tartar. Ask your veterinarian which treats produce the best results.

• Strengthen your cat’s teeth with chewable toys. Look for recommended chew toys that aren’t too hard for your cat’s teeth.

• Keep the water fresh. Fresh water helps wash away food debris that can create bacteria and lead to gingivitis.

• Visit your veterinarian for annual or biannual checkups. But if you suspect your cat is experiencing dental issues, don’t wait. Take them to their vet right away.

PawCrowd’s matriarch, Cleopatra, loves getting her teeth brushed. Cleo is 12 and a half years old but her veterinarian always compliments her on her good oral health! Her daddy brushes her teeth several days a week after he finishes brushing his own teeth. She loves her tuna-flavored toothpaste and knows when she sees daddy brushing his teeth, she is next.

Cleo gets fresh water, or as she calls it “fresh fresh,” twice a day. She loves her fresh fresh with ice. Before bedtime, Cleo gets her dental treats that her veterinarian approved, and she visits her vet twice a year for checkups since she’s a little older.

Send us your photos or videos of your kitty practicing preventative dental care.

Stacey Greiner, PawCrowd CMO

References:

*Be Proactive About Your Cat's Dental Health, Reviewed and updated for accuracy on December 4, 2019, by Dr. Hanie Elfenbein, DVM, PhD

**PetMD By Dr. Joanna Pendergrass, January 18, 2019