Most pet owners ignore their cat's oral health. Sure, they check their teeth once in a while and feed them, but they're not consistent in their efforts to ensure that their furry babies' whites are in good condition.

Some put effort into getting cat teeth cleaning treats for their pets, but they're not always the right ones. Veterinarians always say that cat dental products are essential to your cat's health. That being the case, it would be best if you took your time to find reliable and quality items.

Perhaps you're a cat owner who has never taken pet oral hygiene seriously and are wondering why it's vital for your cute four-legged friend. Keep reading to learn more on this.

What Is Dental Health?

Dental health is defined as the state of your or your cat's oral cavity, which includes the following:

• Teeth
• Gums
• Palate

You need to take your cat for a dental checkup at least once a year or more frequently if required. Why? Because veterinary dentists (yes, they exist) say that periodontal disease can spread through your cat's body if left untreated.

Bacteria from the gums and teeth may enter your cat's bloodstream and affect its organs, joints, or kidneys.

Healthy Teeth: Why Do Cats Need Them?

A picture is worth a thousand words. And cats' mouths are proof of that statement - most often than not, you'll find it hard to look at your cat's teeth and gums if they're in bad shape.

The good news is that with the right cat dental products, you can make a difference and improve their oral health gradually rather than immediately. And by doing so daily (or nearly every day), you ensure that your furry buddy doesn't have any problems eating or drinking.

Remember that a cat's teeth are not like ours - they're honed for tearing meat, and their back molars are used to grind food. A good oral health routine helps them maintain proper chewing action, preventing periodontal disease, tartar buildup, and bad breath.

Symptoms of Poor Dental Health in Cats

There are many ways to tell that Figaro's teeth are in bad shape. Some of them are:

• Tartar buildup throughout the years
• Bad breath (halitosis) - often described as a "fishy" smell, several factors can cause it: Cancer, periodontal disease, infection, tooth resorption, and others.
• Drooling (ptyalism) - watch out for drool with blood as it can indicate cervical line lesions or other dental issues.
• Receding gums or loose teeth
• Itching and pain around the mouth - a sign of gingivitis, an early stage of periodontal disease.
• Dark teeth color due to the accumulation of bacteria on the tooth surfaces, which darken as they accumulate.
• Lack of appetite or difficulty eating- cats with poor dental health often don't want to eat due to the pain they feel when chewing.
• Meowing or withdrawing when you touch it close to the mouth- gingivitis and resorptive lesions can cause so much pain that your feline may get aggressive or withdraw when you scratch it on the chin or pet it on the head.
• Rubbing or pawing at their face- when you notice Bella rubbing her face on objects such as furniture or pawing at it, it may be time to rush her to the dentist.
• Little to no self-grooming- an oral problem like gingivitis can make self-grooming painful.

Which are Some Other Causes of Feline Oral Aches?

There are many other causes of cat oral pain aside from gingivitis, resorptive lesions, and periodontal diseases. Some of them are:

• Malocclusions- teeth don't align properly and rub against each other.
• Fractured teeth- since cats' teeth are not designed to last for a lifetime; they may fracture when Figaro bites on something hard like a toy or piece of furniture.
• Stomatitis- an inflammation of the gums usually caused by a foreign body in the mouth, food allergies, or a viral or bacterial infection.

How Frequently Should You Brush Your Cat's Teeth?

Proper daily brushing is the best way to go. If you've been putting this off for a very long time, don't worry as it's never too late to start - keep in mind your cat needs a bit of patience and practice.

Which are the Best Cat Dental Items?

Here are some of the best cat dental products that can help in preventing and even treating feline dental issues:

Pet Life 'Denta-Clean' Dual-Sided Action Bristle Pet Toothbrush

Manufacturers created this product to combat gingivitis and plaque by enclosing and focusing on each tooth while making a nice foam. It has a flexible neck to reach every area in your cat's mouth and a zero-slip handle to help you maintain a steady grip as you brush Figaro's teeth. Use it with Rinses, Pastes, and Gels for best results.

TropiClean Fresh Breath Made In USA Oral Care Drops For Cats

This item has a powerful solution that producers created to handle tartar and plaque instantly. Put several drops of it into your cat's mouth. Its fast-acting characteristic ensures that your furry baby gets their fresh breath within seconds.

Plaqueoff Cat and Dog Dental Care- 40g Bottle

Here's another item that creators designed to fight bad breath (plaque). It has an appealing taste that'll make administering it to your kitty easier. It also acts fast and spreads to every area in Luna's mouth for quick fresh breath delivery. It is meant to be used daily.

Emerald Pet Stixx Chicken Dental Cat Treats

What will you get when you mix creativity with healthy feline treats? Emerald Pet Stixx Chicken Dental Cat Treats. This item is high in protein and chock full of chicken flavor that your cat will love. Its primary purpose is to reduce plaque buildup and encourage clean teeth while giving them a healthy, tasty treat.

Tropiclean Oral Care Gel For Cat

This is a package of two 5-fluid ounce bottles of gel featuring an advanced formula that targets tartar and plaque. Its makers designed it with a fresh minty taste to mask the taste of medication as you brush your cat's teeth. It has no side impacts and is mild on your cat's mouth.

Conclusion

Your cat's dental health is essential. That's why you should strive to maintain it with the quality cat dental products above. They all have different mechanisms and features, but they're designed to do one thing- clean your feline’s teeth and fight oral problems that can affect their health in the long run.

Your kitty doesn't have to have poor dental health to enjoy the products above. Remember, prevention is better than cure!