Sunday, August 2, 2009

Brushing a kitten's teeth?

Hi,





I know dental health is really important for cats, so I'm trying to get my new kitten (10 weeks) into the habit of having his teeth brush. So far we've tried the suggestions on the package (and on other websites), where you get them used to the taste by using your finger, and then progress to the brush.





He likes the taste, but I can't get him to actually open up his mouth (lol I don't blame the little guy though), and I don't want him to get scared of the toothbrush either by forcing anything. I was just wondering if anyone else has trained their cats to have their teeth brushed, and if they could let me know how it went for them.





Thanks!!

Brushing a kitten's teeth?
I could never get my cat to enjoy the toothbrush, but she always loved the enzymatic toothpaste that is specialized for her. This may be as good as it gets for some cat owners.
Reply:there is a product called suzies tartar most pet stores have it or i think you can get it online.. just get it and it keeps the teeth clean by itself all you do is add it to the water..
Reply:I generally have to hold open my kitty's teeth, and then I gently brush for about 10 seconds, very gently so as not to harm the gums. All you want to do is get off all the food stuck in their teeth. Bad teeth and infections can lead to very bad health problems, so it's a good idea to get your kitty used to brushing. It can be a simple procedure, you may need to start with just a few teeth as your kitty gets used to it. Cats are cats, so you won't ever train one to run up to you and beg for it, but you can give a treat that won't harm the teeth afterward (maybe a dental snack, as long as it doesnt get stuck!), or just explain what you are doing and cuddle. Good luck! My cat's teeth have remained great since I have been brushing, despite the vet suggesting she may need several teeth removed following a cleaning she received about two years ago.





PS, it is more important to brush their teeth than get the toothpaste on there -- you need to remove the built up gunk and food that causes the problem. Toothpaste sitting there WITH the gunk, does no good and may cause it's own problems.
Reply:If you find a way to have them like the toothbrush....let me know :) It's not that important to 'brush' their teeth; it's more important to get the toothpaste on their teeth and gumline. From there the toothpaste will disolve some tartar (I say some b/c it won't take it all). So if you can just get the paste on there with ur finger, it's just as good. Good luck.
Reply:My cat also hates the toothbrush, he clenches his teeth shut. What I do sometimes is lift open his lips and brush the side of his teeth that way, he'll never open up his mouth willingly. I do use the dentabites (i think that's what they're called) treats, they come in a silver bag with green letters. The last time I took my cat to the vet, he said the cat has very nice and clean teeth.



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