Brushing your cat's teeth: How to do it right

How often do you brush your cat's teeth? You may be smiling now, but many owners are actually not aware of how important dental hygiene is for cats. Only a third have their cats' teeth checked regularly by a vet. Poor dental hygiene can lead to problems such as plaque, bad breath, gingivitis and tartar.

Regularly brushing your teeth is a good way to prevent these problems from occurring in the first place. We'll show you how to do it properly.

How to brush your cat's teeth properly

Step 1: Getting used to it

Get your cat used to the new touch of your finger on its gums from a young age. Getting adult cats used to having their teeth brushed is much more difficult.

Gently touch your cat's mouth with your fingers, first on the outside and then on the inside. Reward the cat immediately if it remains calm and allows this procedure to happen. Gradually increase the touches by moving a wet, soft sponge over the teeth and gums. It may take a while before you can begin the next step.

Step 2: The toothbrush

Once your cat has become accustomed to the touch, it will become acquainted with the toothbrush.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a finger toothbrush (available in all pet stores). You can also use pet toothpaste.

Attention: The toothpaste for cats must suit the taste of the cat, otherwise it will not accept it. You will find numerous flavors on the market, from fish to liver.

Tip: Put a little of the pet toothpaste on your finger and let your cat sniff and lick it.

You should not use toothpaste for humans – it contains ingredients that are harmful to cats.

Step 3: Brushing your teeth

Make circular movements with the toothbrush, focusing on the gum line. Start at the back of the mouth and work your way forward. The outside of the teeth needs your special attention, as this is where most food particles and plaque are found.

Tip: Always remain calm, gentle and, above all, patient. Reward your cat for participating with its favorite game. This will also increase its acceptance of brushing teeth.

How to prevent tartar formation in cats

Prevention is and remains the best way to avoid problems with your cat's teeth. Outdoor cats usually have plenty of opportunities to chew on hard objects. The mouse-hunting cats in particular rarely suffer from tartar. They also drink more than house cats. The mineral content in the saliva, which promotes tartar, is therefore significantly lower.

While outdoor cats get a natural dental cleaning by eating mice, small birds and other prey animals through the fur or feathers of their prey, alternatives must be found for our house cats.

Fortunately, there is also dental care for cats through snacking: special chew sticks or harder treats help to reduce plaque and prevent dental diseases through abrasion.

Further tips: