Tartar in cats: How to keep your feline friend's teeth healthy
Tartar â a problem not just for humans. Tartar is also a common culprit in cats, and in the long run, it can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even inflammation. But don't panic! With proper dental care for your cat, you can prevent or remove tartar and make life easier for your feline friend.
In this article, I will explain how to recognize tartar in your cat, what you can do about it, and which simple care measures can help prevent the problem from arising in the first place.
What is tartar and how does it form in cats?
Tartar is a stubborn deposit that forms from soft dental plaque. Minerals in saliva cause this plaque to harden into a solid layer that accumulates primarily on the tooth surfaces and along the gum line .
Causes of tartar in cats:
- Incorrect diet: Soft food contributes little to dental cleaning.
- Genetic predisposition: Some cats are more prone to tartar buildup.
- Poor dental hygiene: Without dental care, bacteria have an easy time.
- Age: Older cats are more likely to develop dental problems.
Recognizing tartar in cats â the most important symptoms
Tartar is visible to the naked eye if you know what to look for. Check your cat's mouth regularly to intervene early.
Typical signs of tartar in cats:
- Yellowish-brown deposits on the teeth
- Bad breath (unpleasant, foul odor)
- Redness and swelling of the gums
- Bleeding gums
- Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
- Your cat is reluctant to chew or is eating more slowly.
Important: Tartar forms gradually. The longer it remains untreated, the more damage it causes.
Dangers of tartar: Why you should take action
Tartar in cats is not just a cosmetic problem. If left untreated, it can have serious health consequences:
- Gingivitis: Tartar irritates the gums and leads to inflammation (gingivitis).
- Periodontitis: Untreated tartar attacks the tooth roots and causes tooth loss.
- Pain: Your cat is suffering, perhaps without you even noticing.
- Bacterial infections: The bacteria can enter the bloodstream and damage the heart, liver, or kidneys.
Removing tartar: What to do if your cat has tartar?
If your cat already has tartar, it usually can't be easily removed at home. The vet can help:
1. Professional dental cleaning at the veterinarian:
- The veterinarian removes tartar using special equipment, often under anesthesia.
- Cost: Between 80 and 200 euros, depending on the effort involved and the region.
2. Aftercare at home:
After tartar removal, it is important to care for the teeth regularly so that new plaque does not form immediately.
Home remedies for tartar: Do they really work?
Tartar can't simply be wished away. However, there are home remedies that can help:
- Tooth-cleaning snacks: Special chewable snacks can reduce plaque.
- Coconut oil: Applying a touch of coconut oil to the teeth has an antibacterial effect.
- Dental care gels: These gels slowly dissolve plaque and tartar.
Important: Home remedies are primarily helpful for prevention â existing tartar must be professionally removed.
Preventing tartar: The best tips for cat dental care
Prevention is the best way to avoid tartar buildup in your cat. Here are the most important tips:
1. Brush your teeth:
- Gradually get your cat used to having its teeth brushed. Special toothbrushes and toothpaste for cats are ideal.
- Start gently with short sessions and increase gradually.
2. A diet that promotes healthy teeth:
- Offer your cat dry food or pieces of raw meat that encourage chewing and clean the teeth.
- Avoid sugary foods â they promote plaque!
In particular, oils such as hemp oil for cats or linseed oil for cats support the oral flora with omega fatty acids and can counteract plaque formation.
3. Tooth-cleaning snacks:
- Special chew snacks or toys support mechanical tooth cleaning.
4. Regular checks:
- Check your cat's teeth regularly. This way you can detect tartar early.
- An annual check-up at the veterinarian helps to avoid dental problems.
Gingivitis: A common problem in cats
Tartar and gum inflammation often go hand in hand. Inflamed gums are painful, bleed easily, and cause unpleasant bad breath.
Symptoms of gum inflammation:
- Red, swollen gums
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive salivation
- Bad breath
Treatment:
The veterinarian cleans the teeth and may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics.
How often should you check your cat's teeth?
- Weekly: A quick look inside the mouth helps to detect changes early.
- Every six months: If you suspect dental problems, you should consult your veterinarian.
- Annually: A dental check-up at the veterinarian is part of the routine examination.
Conclusion: Tartar in cats â prevention is better than cure!
Tartar buildup in cats is a serious problem that shouldn't be ignored. Regular checkups, proper dental care, and a healthy diet can do a lot to prevent it.
Key points at a glance:
- You can recognize tartar by its yellowish deposits and bad breath.
- Professional teeth cleaning is often unavoidable.
- Oral hygiene at home is key to prevention.
- Get your cat used to having its teeth brushed early to avoid long-term problems.
A healthy mouth means a happy cat life â so grab your toothbrush! đŸ
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