Choosing a Brush

The proper instruments make all the difference. You can use human toothbrushes. Baby toothbrushes are best because they're designed for small spaces and have extremely soft bristles that won't damage your kitty's gums, which is especially important if she already has mouth irritation. There are special pet toothbrushes, including a fingertip brush with tiny nubs on it. You'll also find cat-approved toothpaste at your vet's office or pet supply store in flavors that appeal to your furry friend. Never use human toothpaste for pets because it contains properties, particularly fluoride, that are harmful to animals (remember, your cat can't spit and rinse once you're done brushing).

Tips for Successful Brushing

Ideally, you want to practice regular cat dental health when your baby is a kitten. No matter her age, start by getting her used to you poking around in her mouth. You can use a piece of gauze, a wet washcloth, or even your finger in the beginning, focusing on the outside of her teeth and the gumline. It can also be a good idea to wrap her in a towel or blanket when you start this process to keep her from squirming and prevent you from getting scratched.

Once she's comfortable, introduce her to the toothbrush and toothpaste by letting her sniff them a bit. Then, in a day or two, start brushing. "Work quickly," suggests Vetstreet. "You don't need to scrub. Work up to 30 seconds of brushing for each side of the mouth at least every other day." If she's resistant, don't give up! Time and patience go a long way.

Cat parents know that it's not easy to brush a cat's teeth — or do anything they don't want you to do, for that matter! But by keeping your cat's teeth clean, you help ensure your cat has good oral hygiene. Good oral care can lead to a healthier cat overall, so you can spend your days playing together, rather than worrying about her teeth.

Food for Oral Care

In conjunction with regular brushing, consider a cat food formulated for oral health, which may slow or even prevent the development of plaque and tartar. There are also some cat treats out there that help with bad breath and cat oral care, but you should give treats only in moderation because of diet, and they are not sufficient at cleaning your cat's whole mouth. Instead, use them as a reward for being good during teeth cleaning time.