"Brush Up" on Feline Dental Disease

             While many of us are quick to spot symptoms of illness in our furry friends, we often exhibit little concern when it comes to dental care. Who knew cats could get cavities? According to an article in The Washington Post, about 70% of cats over the age of two have some form of dental disease. A study by Banfield Pet Hospitals, the world's largest general vet practice, yielded similar results: dental disease was the most common ailment found amongst the 450,000 cats treated in 2010. These statistics can sound daunting but the recommended precautions are simple: have your vet check kitty's teeth at his biannual physical, and get her teeth cleaned once a year. Less costly preventative measures include sticking to dry food (it scrapes teeth and sticks less than wet food) and good ole' fashioned brushing. This can be a challenge for owners of finnicky felines, but a gentle introduction and follow-up treats can trick almost any cat into getting his chompers scrubbed. Here is a link to a great tutorial video from the American Veterinary Medical Association:

 How to Brush Your Pet's Teeth

If only it were this easy!

            The implications of dental disease range from sore gums and tooth decay to heart attacks and kidney disease if infection spreads. Yikes! While living with a toothless cat will certainly decrease your likelihood of receiving fang-induced puncture wounds, dental disease and tooth removal is extremely painful and stressful for cats, not to mention expensive. Regardless of your regimen, keep a lookout for telltale signs of dental disease like bad breath, red gums, and drooling. Make a veterinary appointment immediately if any of these symptoms appear since they are likely to progress rapidly. I hope I haven't scared you, fellow cat lovers! As long as you keep on eye on things and follow the recommended steps, your kitty's smile will last a lifetime.