Kitten Dental Care

It’s never too early to start looking after your kitten’s teeth. A regular brushing routine can help to prevent tooth decay and gum problems in the future.

Looking after your kitten’s teeth

Eight out of ten cats over the age of three have tooth and gum problems. This is why it’s a good idea to establish a cleaning routine early on in your pet’s life.

The first step is to get kittens used to the mild handling of the face and teeth. Run a soft brush or rubber fingertip applicator across her teeth regularly so she gets used to the contact and taste.

Once she’s comfortable with this routine, discuss with your vet if she’s ready for brushing. Never brush milk teeth!

When you get the ok, begin by washing your hands and pulling back her gums.

Apply the bristles to the teeth at a 45 degree angle and use small circular motions on the outside surfaces.

Start slowly and use special pet toothpaste in tasty flavours.

Kittens tend to accumulate plaque on the outside of their teeth rather than the inside, so be sure to brush here carefully!

It’s important to get rid of plaque as it hardens to form tartar, irritating the gums and causing gingivitis and loss of teeth. Bacteria can even enter the bloodstream and damage the kidneys and other organs.