Brushing Cat Teeth: How to Start and Keep Your Cat’s Mouth Healthy

If you consider dental care a human necessity only, think twice. Your cat's teeth need the same affection and care as yours. Sure, your furry companion might not flash a bright, toothy smile, but their mouth is a huge factor in determining overall health. From avoiding the pain of terrible diseases to simply freshening his breath, dedicating a small amount of time to your cat's dental needs can make all the difference. Let's get everything straight about cat dental care and how to keep those whites looking purr-fectly healthy.


Like us, cats are susceptible to a range of dental problems. Without regular care, tartar and plaque may accumulate on their teeth, which can cause bad breath, gum disease, tooth decay, and more serious conditions such as infections. Dental disease is one of the most prevalent health problems in cats, particularly with age.


You may not have symptoms immediately, but watch for these signs:
The good news? With some effort, you can keep your cat's mouth healthy and save money on vet trips later.


Getting your cat to brush its teeth may seem like an impossible task, but it's the best method for preventing dental disease. The secret is to begin slowly, remain relaxed, and make it a pleasant experience.

This is how to introduce brushing cat teeth:

If your cat won't let you anywhere near their mouth at all, don't worry, there are still some other tricks you can try to keep their teeth clean.

If brushing isn't possible, there are a few alternatives you can try to clean your cat's teeth at home:

Keep in mind, even though these options work, they work best as part of brushing and professional oral care on a regular basis.

Even with optimal home care, your cat still requires periodic dental checkups. Most veterinarians suggest an oral examination annually, but senior cats or those with dental disease require more frequent visits.

A professional cleaning while the cat is under anesthesia may be required to take away tartar and identify concealed issues. This may seem frightening, but it's a safe procedure and worth it to maintain your cat's dental health.


Cat dental care isn’t a one-and-done thing, it’s a lifelong commitment. Here are some quick tips to make it part of your routine:
Most importantly, be patient. Every cat is different. Some might get used to brushing quickly, while others need time and alternative methods.

A healthy smile means a happy cat. By making teeth care a priority for your cat's health, you're not only keeping them from having bad breath, you're also safeguarding their health for the long term. So the next time your kitty snuggles up alongside, you can grin too, knowing you're giving them the top care from tooth to tail.