As we head into a new year, many will resolve to do things better in 2023 than they did the previous year. If you are looking for a way to cut costs, then spending money might not seem like a great plan. When it comes to preventative health for your cat, however, taking the right steps toward your cat’s dental care can end up saving you significantly in time, money, and suffering on the part of your feline friend. These are simple hacks to improve the quality of life for your furry friend!
The Bleak Statistics
According to recent statistics, as much as 90% of all cats will develop some type of oral care problem in their lifetime. Cats, just like humans, can succumb to periodontal disease, plaque, and illnesses like abscesses, infection, and tooth loss if not cared for. And most cats who are experiencing dental problems and in need of care can’t even let their caregivers know, and the signs are not easy to spot. Being in tune and creating a regular oral daily routine is the best way to stay on top of things and ensure that you don’t miss anything.
Plaque and Your Cat’s Oral Health
Plaque is a bacteria that thrives when the right conditions are present, like saliva, food, and bacteria. If it isn’t addressed, it can quickly turn into periodontal disease which affects up to 70% of adult cats by the time they are 2 years old. When a cat has periodontal disease, it can also cause infection in the kidneys, heart, liver, and lungs, so a healthy mouth is essential for your cat’s overall health.
What are the Signs that Your Feline Has Dental Issues?
Although cats can’t come right out and tell you what is wrong, there are signs that you can look for that might indicate that it is time to have your cat examined. Those warning signs are:
- Halitosis or chronic bad breath
- Bleeding or inflamed and red gums
- Ulcers of the gum and mouth
- Excessive pawing or drooling around food
- Refusing food or difficulty eating and weight loss
Cat Oral Care Starts with Brushing
One of the most common ways that you can combat oral disease is through at-home tooth brushing. The key is to get your cat accustomed early on so that it produces less trauma for everyone! Use a toothbrush that is appropriately sized for your cat and has softer rather than harder bristles. Also, make sure to use toothpaste that is specifically designed for felines to avoid any stomach issues or distress. If tooth brushing is difficult due to inflammation, it might be better to have your cat examined on a baseline so that you can help to restore their teeth to pre-inflammation condition.
As we roll into a new year, many people will be searching for ways to do things better in the upcoming year than they have in previous ones. If you want to make one positive change, then adding your cat’s oral care and regime to your to-do list will not only save you money; it can save your cat from a whole lot of suffering and a diminished quality of life. If you notice that your cat is having oral pain or any type of oral issue, schedule an appointment with Veterinary Dental Care today and let us get them back on the road to oral health in 2023!