The UK's leading feline welfare charity, Cats Protection, has issued an urgent alert to all cat owners concerning a 'widespread' health problem affecting pets across the nation.
The Silent Threat: Widespread Feline Dental Disease
In a recent social media plea, the charity highlighted that dental issues are exceptionally common in cats. Left unchecked, these problems can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and serious infections. The most effective preventative measure, according to experts, is a simple but often overlooked routine: brushing your cat's teeth.
"The idea of brushing your cat's teeth might seem like a difficult feat, but you can slowly train your cat to get used to it," advised Cats Protection. They emphasised that this practice is the best way to avoid the need for professional veterinary cleaning or even tooth extraction later in life.
How to Train Your Cat for Tooth Brushing
The charity provides clear guidance for owners. Training should begin with positive reinforcement, ideally when a cat is still a kitten, around the time they get their adult teeth at six to nine months old. Starting young helps kittens form a positive association with having their mouth handled, even before their teeth need active cleaning.
Cats Protection's step-by-step advice includes:
- Begin with gradual training, using plenty of praise and rewards.
- Schedule a vet check first to ensure your cat isn't in any dental pain before you start.
- If your cat becomes stressed or tries to escape, stop immediately and let them go to avoid creating a negative experience.
- Once accustomed, brush at the same time daily to fit into your cat's love of routine, followed by a fuss or play session.
Essential Do's and Don'ts for Cat Owners
A critical warning from the charity is to never use human toothpaste, as the fluoride and other ingredients can be toxic to cats if swallowed. Instead, owners must purchase specially formulated cat toothpaste, which is safe to ingest. Flavoured varieties, such as chicken or fish, can make the process much more appealing for your pet.
The overarching message from Cats Protection is one of proactive care. While starting young is ideal, they stress that it is never too late to begin a dental hygiene routine. Taking these steps can significantly improve your cat's quality of life and help them enjoy a longer, healthier companionship with you.
