Just like us, your cat's oral health is crucial to their overall well-being. Regular brushing helps prevent periodontal disease and plaque buildup, both of which can lead to serious health issues in the long run.

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Skipping your cat's dental hygiene routine can result in:

• Plaque buildup, leading to premature tooth decay.
• Periodontal disease, a major reason for vet visits in cats.
• Unpleasant bad breath.
• Costly and time-consuming dental procedures later on.

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Periodontal disease, an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth, affects a staggering 50-80% of cats over the age of four. It starts with gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup.

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Without regular brushing, plaque hardens into tartar, leading to more serious problems. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to destructive periodontal disease, which can cause pain, tooth loss, and even impact your cat's overall health.

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Vets emphasize consistency over perfection when it comes to brushing your cat's teeth. Ideally, you'd do both, but if you have to choose, regular brushing is more important than super-thorough brushing. It's a worthwhile trade-off!

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Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of when and how to brush your cat's teeth.

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Getting Your Cat Used to Teeth Brushing: A Gentle Approach

Don't expect your cat to embrace the toothbrush overnight. This is a process that takes time, patience, and positive reinforcement. Here's how to introduce teeth brushing gradually:

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Step 1: Desensitization

• Start slow: Simply touch your cat's mouth more often, even if it's just a gentle rub on the gums while they're relaxed in your lap.
• Be patient: If your cat becomes defensive, back off and try again later. Remember, baby steps!

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Step 2: Introducing the Tools

• Familiarization: Allow your cat to sniff and investigate your tooth brushing supplies.
• Cat-specific: Use a cat toothbrush (we recommend the rubber thimble style with nubs) and cat toothpaste.
• Never use human toothpaste, baking soda or DIY solutions: These can be toxic to your cat if swallowed.
• Lick and learn: Gradually introduce the toothpaste by letting your cat lick a small amount from your finger.

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Stay calm and patient: Your cat will pick up on your anxiety. Remember, this process can take days, or even a week or more, so be patient and consistent. Your cat's dental health is worth the effort!

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How & When to brush their teeth: Gentle and Efficient

With your relaxed cat in your lap, gently pull back their lips on one side using a toothbrush loaded with toothpaste. Start with the front teeth and work your way back, aiming for a quick but gentle brushing motion. If your cat becomes resistant, it’s ok. You can always get what you missed by switching sides and tackling the remaining teeth another day.

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Remember, the goal is to cover as much tooth surface as possible, even if you don't get to every tooth. There's no perfect method, just consistent effort! 

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Important Note: Don't push your cat beyond their comfort level. A thorough brushing session is not worth making your cat fearful of you. If your cat seems stressed, back off.

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Lastly, don't hesitate to ask your vet during your cat's annual check-up for any specific areas that need extra attention.

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Establishing a Brushing Routine

The ideal time to start brushing your cat's teeth is when they're a kitten. Introducing this routine before they reach six months old increases your chances of success in the long run.

While cats might not love having their teeth brushed, the key is consistent repetition. The goal is to achieve passive acceptance of the process.

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Frequency:

• Daily brushing is optimal: This removes plaque effectively, which is crucial for preventing periodontal disease.
• At least 3 times a week: If daily brushing isn't possible, aim for a consistent schedule you can stick to. Maybe before work on weekdays, or while you're watching TV on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
• Aim for about 30 seconds of brushing on each side of your cat's mouth.

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Timing:

• Choose calm moments: Pick a quiet and relaxed time of day to brush your cat's teeth. Avoid stressful situations for both you and your cat.

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Remember, a calm cat leads to a calmer brushing experience!

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Additional Tips for Cat Tooth Brushing:

• Wear gloves: A cat's mouth contains a lot of bacteria. If possible, wear gloves while brushing their teeth.
• Wash your hands: If gloves aren't feasible, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after brushing.
• Rinse the toothbrush: Thoroughly rinse the toothbrush before storing it.
• Replace regularly: Replace the toothbrush every three months.
• Separate brushes: If you have multiple cats, use a different toothbrush for each one.

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