How to Freshen a Cat's Breath

Your cat's dental care is as important as the rest of their medical needs. Just as you would not neglect your own dental care, don't neglect care for your pets. There are several easy ways to keep your cat's teeth and gums healthy and his breath fresh.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Finger toothbrush
• Plaque removing pet toothpaste
• Nutritious dry food and snacks
• Regular dental checkups

1. Care for your cat's teeth and gums regularly. Cats can be a little more difficult to deal with than dogs when dental care is concerned. Let's face it, cats have a mind of their own and they cooperate on their terms only! But regular care can prevent health problems than can result from gum disease.
2. Use a finger toothbrush. These usually work better with cats than regular toothbrushes for pets because you can better control the level of pressure you use. Try to use a small amount of plaque-fighting pet toothpaste at least once a month. Massage gently and be ready to stop if the master says stop!
3. Give your cat dry foods, which help to keep their teeth clean and remove plaque build-up. Hill's Science Diet Oral Care is made specifically for treating bad breath and tarter build-up. Tarter build-up and plaque can cause gum disease and result in unpleasant breath. Soft foods can build up under the gums and create gum disease. If you use soft foods you will need to be especially diligent about brushing and professional cleanings.
4. Buy cat snacks that are specifically formulated for plaque control and dental care. There are also a number of cat breath fresheners in snack form. Ask your veterinarian for advice on these products before use. She may be able to recommend something more effective for those times between cleanings.
5. Have your cat's teeth and gums examined regularly by your veterinarian. When he feels a cleaning is warranted, follow that advice. Dental problems and gum disease can lead to serious medical problems and a lot of pain.

Tips & Warnings

• Time your tooth brushing carefully. You'll get better results when your cat is relaxed and will tolerate a few minutes of being handled.
• Reconsider a diet of strictly soft foods. Hard foods are the best way to naturally remove tarter and plaque.
• Always get your vet's advice before trying new products.
• Never brush too firmly, as you can easily irritate the gums and greatly reduce your cat's cooperation in the future.
• Sudden changes in your cat's diet can cause severe digestive issues. Dietary changes should be very gradual.