Tooth loss is preventable in cats as long as you take care of their dental hygiene. But you can’t fight feline dental diseases without the right supplies. There are many kinds of cat toothpaste to choose from, and it can be difficult to know which ones actually work. We put together this guide to help you choose the best toothpaste for your cat.
Why It’s Important to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth
Cats are vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease, just like humans. So it’s important to clean your cat’s teeth daily (or at least weekly) to eliminate plaque. Cats also need regular professional teeth cleanings to remove tartar buildup and prevent decay.
Professional cleanings can prevent tooth loss in cats, and they ensure dental problems are detected and treated as early as possible. Pet dental cleanings are typically performed once a year. During the cleaning, the cat is sedated and their vitals are closely monitored.
What Toothpaste Is Good for Cats?
You should never use your own toothpaste when brushing your cat’s teeth. Many human toothpastes contain ingredients that are toxic to cats, even though they are safe for humans. For example, fluoride and xylitol can be deadly.
Other ingredients like baking soda and sodium lauryl sulfate can cause stomach problems in cats, even when ingested in small amounts. And the alcohol in toothpaste can dry out your cat’s mouth, making bacteria buildup worse.
Make sure to choose a toothpaste that is specifically formulated for feline dental care to safely keep their teeth clean and healthy. You should look for a cat toothpaste that has an enzymatic formula or contains chlorine dioxide to safely and effectively neutralize plaque.
How to Choose the Best Toothpaste for Your Cat
Choose a Flavor Your Cat Enjoys
Cat toothpastes are typically available in a variety of flavors, such as chicken, fish, or beef. Choosing a toothpaste with a flavor that your cat likes can help make the training process easier and less stressful for your cat.
If your cat is picky, try experimenting with a few different flavors until you find one they enjoy. And if you can’t find a flavored toothpaste your cat likes, then you can always try a flavor-free toothpaste.
Consult Your Veterinarian
Each cat has unique dental needs, so it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian before buying toothpaste for your cat. Your vet can let you know which toothpaste is a good choice for your furry friend. They can also recommend the best toothpaste with the safest ingredients. If you want to make your own cat toothpaste, it’s even more important to consult your veterinarian to ensure that the recipe is safe and can actually improve your cat’s dental health.
Cat Dental Cleanings in Gilbert, Arizona
Yearly oral exams and cleanings are crucial in maintaining your cat’s overall health. At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we perform safe and effective dental cleanings for cats. We also carry a variety of feline dental products in our online pharmacy. If you’d like to consult a vet about the best toothpaste for your cat or schedule a cleaning, call 480-497-0505 today to make an appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (4/5/2023). Photo by Piotr Musioł on Unsplash