Here we can see, “How to Examine Your Cat’s Teeth and Gums Correctly”
An at-home examination of the teeth and gums is an important aspect of a dental care program for cats. Owners should do this practice on their cats for one to two minutes at least twice or three times per month. It can assist you in detecting potential issues early on, allowing you to book an appointment with your veterinarian and keep your kitten as healthy as possible. You’ll be relieved to learn that it’s relatively simple, and most cats become used to it after a few attempts.
Table of Contents
Getting Ready to Check Your Cat’s Teeth
When you ask many cat owners about examining their cat’s teeth, they will giggle. People fear their cats will either refuse to sit still or will struggle and scratch the entire time. It may not be the easiest assignment, but it is critical, and being prepared will make all the difference.
Gather all of your supplies ahead of time so you can focus solely on your kit. Pick a time when your cat is at its most relaxed. Make sure you’re calm as well, because your cat will pick up on any anxiety or negativity you’re feeling about the test.
You’ll want to select an area that’s both cosy and well-lit. It may also be easier to check the oral cavity with a spouse or friend holding the cat’s mouth open.
- Small penlight
- Dental chew reward
Breath Check
To begin, take a whiff of your cat’s breath. Cats don’t have extraordinarily pleasant or terrible breath by nature, so pay attention if it smells off or out of the ordinary. A foul odour could indicate a gum and/or bone infection. If dental problems are ruled out as the source of your pet’s bad breath, your veterinarian can look into other possibilities, including kidney illness or diabetes.
Tip the Head Back
To radiate tranquilly and comfort your cat, begin talking slowly and softly to your cat. Carry on with your nice conversation throughout the rest of the procedure. After that, gently tilt the cat’s head back toward its backside.
Open the Mouth
Spread the side of the cat’s mouth open using your thumb and index finger. Make sure you have a good flashlight or adequate lighting for the next several steps.
Check the Teeth
Examine your cat’s rear teeth, starting on one side of the mouth. Look for yellowing (plaque) or darker material (tartar) on your teeth, as well as any cracked or fractured teeth. Then look at the colour of your gums. They should have a healthy pink tint rather than an angry red or a pale pink hue. An issue could also be indicated if the gums are developing over the tooth.
Examine the front teeth and the opposite side of the mouth with the same tooth and gum examination. Take mental notes of any issues you come across as you work your way around. When you’re finished, write them down so you’ll remember what to tell the vet about your findings.
Inspect the Throat
Before you let Kitty leave, check for redness in the back of their throat, especially if it has a “cobblestone” appearance. This is a symptom of stomatitis, a painful and dangerous illness that affects older cats.
Provide a Reward
When you’re finished, give your cat a healthy treat as a reward. A dental chew would be a fantastic and sensible option. After a couple of these tests, your cat might even start to anticipate this special reward!
Preventing Problems During the Dental Exam
If the cats struggle for attention at any point, give up and try again another day. Attempting to confine a cat who appears to be unhappy with your prodding and poking will only make the next attempt more difficult, and you may be bitten. You want your dental examinations to be a pleasant experience.
Dental care is vital for your cat’s health and becomes more important as they get older. Introduce this method as early as possible, but remember that it’s never too late to begin. It’s critical to make the treatment a regular habit if you and your cat are both familiar with it. If you can’t do it more than once a month, make it once a month.
Finally, have a veterinary examination once a year. If the cat has had previous dental issues, a check-up should be done at least twice a year, or more frequently as needed.
User Questions
How do you inspect a cat’s mouth?
To look inside the cat’s mouth, put one hand on the cat’s head and lift the lips ventrally with the thumb and forefinger to see the maxilla. With the other hand, put the forefinger on the mandibular incisor area and gently pull the lower jaw ventrally while tilting the head back to see the maxilla.
How can I tell if my cat’s teeth are healthy?
The teeth of a healthy cat should be clean, white, and free of any chips. There should be no sores or lesions on their gums, and they should be pink and healthy with no redness, swelling, or bleeding.
Does wet cat food cause gingivitis?
If the cat does not have something to chew on (or someone willing to brush its teeth), gingivitis is likely.
What should a cat’s breath smell like?
In both cats and dogs, a slight odour is natural. When you get too close to your pet’s mouth, their breath can smell like their food, which is generally fishy for cats and gamey for dogs. It should be obvious, but not to the point of becoming offensive.
Why does my cat’s saliva stink?
Lack of oral hygiene is by far the most common problem in cats (as well as dogs and, dare we say, humans!). Plaque is a foul-smelling substance that forms when bacteria stick to the teeth and mix with food and saliva to make it.
Conclusion
I hope you found this helpful guide. If you have any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to use the form below.
