
In this case, it starts affecting the tissues supporting the teeth and causes bone loss and tooth loss. The gingivitis can, however, progress into periodontitis. In fact, a cat can have severe gingivitis without calculus and vice versa. It’s also important to note that the presence of tartar is a predisposing factor for gingivitis but it is not necessarily a cause of gingivitis. In that case, the gingivitis doesn’t get worse. The bacteria of the plaque and the gums can also exist in a symbiotic relationship. Gingivitis is reversible: it can go away by removing the plaque. The bacteria of the plaque can penetrate the gum and that’s when your cat starts having gingivitis-an inflammation of the gums. It’s also always covered with a layer of plaque. If plaque is not removed, it can calcify in only two weeks and form calculus-also called tartar. The plaque is the bacteria biofilm present on the teeth of our cats. Let’s build up some vocabulary to better understand the two main periodontal diseases: gingivitis and periodontitis. Periodontal disease refers to all diseases linked to the inflammation of the gum. It’s estimated that around 70-80% of cats have some form of oral disease! In today’s article, we are going to see what we can do to prevent these diseases as pet owners, and the role of the diet in periodontal diseases. If you notice any of these signs, consult your veterinarian.īy following these tips, you can help keep your cat's teeth healthy and prevent dental problems.After having tackled obesity in cats-the second most common health issue-it’s time to talk about the first one: periodontal diseases.
#Calculus buildup on cats teeth professional
Your veterinarian can also provide professional dental cleaning if necessary.īe aware of signs of dental problems: Signs of dental problems in cats include bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling, and pawing at the mouth. Regular dental check-ups: Regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian are important for detecting and preventing dental problems. Wet food can also be beneficial as it helps to keep your cat hydrated. Choose treats that are specifically designed for cat dental health, and toys that encourage chewing and playing.įeed a balanced diet: A balanced diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates can help to maintain your cat's dental care. Provide dental treats and toys: Dental treats and toys can help to keep your cat's teeth clean and healthy.

You can gradually introduce toothbrushing to your cat by starting with a small amount of cat toothpaste on your finger and gradually progressing to using the toothbrush. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and specially formulated toothpaste for cats. Here are some tips for maintaining your cat's dental care:īrushing cats teeth: Brushing your cat's teeth regularly helps to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Taking care of your cat's teeth is an important part of their overall health and well-being. Trauma: Trauma to the teeth or mouth, such as from a fall or a fight with another cat, can also lead to dental problems. This is because their teeth may wear down, and their gums may recede, making them more susceptible to infections. You should pay more attention to cat dental care. For example, some breeds, such as the Siamese, may be more prone to gum disease.Īge: As cats age, they become more prone to dental problems. Genetics: Some cats may be more prone to dental problems due to their genetics. Carbohydrates can lead to plaque buildup, while protein helps to keep the cat teeth clean. Poor Dental Hygiene: Cats that do not receive proper dental care, including regular brushing and professional cat dental cleaning, are more likely to develop dental problems such as plaque and tartar buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.ĭiet: A diet that is high in carbohydrates and low in protein can contribute to dental problems in cats. There are several reasons why a cat's teeth can go bad.

Broken teeth can be painful and may require extraction. It can result in tooth loss and may require tooth extraction.īroken Teeth: Cats can break their teeth due to trauma or chewing on hard objects. Tooth Resorption: This is a painful condition where the body breaks down and reabsorbs a tooth's structure. It can cause tooth loss and can also affect the overall health of your cat. Periodontal Disease: This is a bacterial infection of the gums and tissues that surround and support the teeth. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. Plaque and Tartar Buildup: Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on cat teeth, and if not removed, it can harden into tartar. Some of the common dental problems in cats include: Many excrement shovelers will ignore the cat's teeth health problems, but in fact cat teeth can develop problems just like human teeth, and if left untreated, these problems can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
