Dental disease is one of the most common — and most overlooked — health problems in cats. By the age of three, the majority of cats show some sign of it, yet because our feline friends hide discomfort so well, the early stages usually pass unnoticed. A little routine attention now spares your cat real pain later, and protects organs far beyond the mouth.
1. Check the mouth regularly
Once a week, gently lift your cat's lip and look at the teeth and gums. Healthy gums are pink, not red or swollen, and the teeth should be free of heavy brown tartar. Bad breath, drooling or a reluctance to eat hard food are all early warning signs worth a check-up.
2. Brush when you can
Brushing is the single most effective thing you can do at home. Use a pet-safe toothpaste — never human toothpaste — and a soft finger brush, building up slowly so it stays a calm, positive routine. Even a few times a week makes a measurable difference to plaque.
3. Choose the right diet and treats
Some dental diets and vet-approved dental treats are designed to reduce tartar as your cat chews. They are a helpful supplement to brushing, not a replacement, but they make a genuine contribution to keeping the mouth healthy between check-ups.
4. Don't skip professional cleanings
Even with great home care, most cats benefit from a professional scale and polish under anaesthetic at some point. This removes tartar beneath the gumline that brushing simply cannot reach, and lets us spot problems while they are still easy to treat.
5. Watch for the warning signs
Pawing at the mouth, dropping food, weight loss or a sudden change in eating habits all warrant a visit. Caught early, dental problems are straightforward to manage — left alone, they lead to infection, tooth loss and strain on the heart and kidneys. When in doubt, book a check-up and let us take a look.
