How to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth the Right Way

By Dan Frontworth Grooming August 20, 2010 1 comment

Did you know that your pet needs to get its teeth brushed just the way we humans do?

Well, if you haven’t, here is the big surprise: they do. So, how exactly do you brush the teeth of your pet? How to brush your cat’s teeth the right way?

A very common disease among cats is periodontal disease; it can be prevented by brushing your kitten’s teeth every day. We as humans are not used to brushing the teeth of our pets and therefore need proper guidance on DIY cat grooming. Well, here are some dental tips that could be of help.

  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a specially formulated toothpaste for cats. There is special feline toothpaste available in flavors preferred by kitties. Do not use human paste (Colgate, Crest, etc.) under any circumstances.
  • The cat’s back and upper teeth are normally the ones affected by periodontal disease. Plaque, which builds up in the gums and teeth, hardens and becomes tartar. So before you start with the brushing routine, take your cat to a professional for a complete teeth cleaning process.
  • Initially, instead of using a brush, you can use your fingers with the pet toothpaste applied on them. Over the next few days, replace the fingers with a toothbrush.

    brush cat teeth

    undergroundbastard/Flickr.com

  • Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle, and slowly move in an oval position. Start with the front teeth and slowly move back.
  • The lips of the cat might have to be pulled back gently to gain access to the teeth.
  • Start the practice of brushing at an early age so that there is less of a resistance. If you start brushing your cat’s teeth after they have grown, you might face some problems, as your kitten might need time to get accustomed to this strange routine.
  • Reward your kitty every time it cooperates with the brushing schedule.
  • Brush those teeth every day, and take your pet to a veterinarian once a year to check for any teeth or gum problems.

Well, isn’t it easy? Hmm, maybe not. But at least now you know how to brush your cat’s teeth the right way.

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1 Comment - Where Is Yours?

  1. Johnny says:
    November 9, 2010 at 3:19 am

    Thanks for imparting your knowledge regarding this one because I really love to read those article related to pets. I am bit surprise that cats also need to brush their teeth. But I would not dare to do it because they are already grown up. Maybe in the future I can apply your suggestions and hopefully it works to my pets. Hope to see more of your article about pets.

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