If you don’t brush your cat’s teeth, it can lead to a number of serious health issues. Poor dental hygiene can cause dental disease, which can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss. It can also cause other systemic problems, such as heart, liver, and kidney disease. The bacteria from infected teeth can spread throughout the body, leading to inflammation and other serious health concerns. To keep your cat healthy, it is essential to brush their teeth regularly.
What Happens if You Don’t Brush a Cat’s Teeth?
Table of Contents
Cats are notorious for their love of cleanliness and self-grooming, so it may be surprising to learn that cats need assistance with their oral hygiene. Brushing a cat’s teeth can help prevent a variety of dental health issues, including plaque and tartar buildup, gingivitis, and tooth decay. Without proper brushing, cats can suffer from painful problems that can affect their overall health.
Buildup of Plaque and Tartar
If not removed regularly, plaque can build up and harden into tartar on a cat’s teeth. This can lead to inflammation and infection of the gums, which is known as gingivitis. As periodontal disease progresses, the gums can become infected and start to recede. This can cause the teeth to become loose and eventually fall out.
Painful Symptoms
Cats that don’t have their teeth brushed regularly may experience painful symptoms, including difficulty eating, bad breath, and drooling. Cats may also become reluctant to eat, as the pain from their teeth can be too much to bear. Additionally, an untreated dental condition can cause an infection that could spread to other parts of the body, such as the heart and kidneys.
Tooth Decay
Regular brushing is essential to prevent tooth decay in cats. Tooth decay can cause bad breath, tooth loss, and infections. It can also lead to an abscess, which is an infection under the teeth or gums. An abscess can cause extreme pain and inflammation and can even be life-threatening if left untreated.
Preventative Care
Fortunately, the majority of dental diseases in cats can be prevented with regular brushing. While cats may not be thrilled at the idea of having their teeth brushed, it is essential to their overall health. It is best to start brushing a cat’s teeth at a young age, as this can help them get used to the routine. Additionally, cats should be taken to the vet for regular check-ups, as this can help identify any problems before they become serious.
Regular brushing and veterinary visits are the best way to ensure that a cat’s teeth remain healthy and free of disease. Without proper care, cats can suffer from painful symptoms and life-threatening infections.
Common Myths About Not Brushing Cat Teeth
1. Myth: If you don’t brush your cat’s teeth, their teeth will inevitably become diseased and decayed.
Fact: While it’s true that not brushing your cat’s teeth can lead to dental problems, regular brushing is not the only way to maintain your cat’s dental health. Regular checkups with a veterinarian, along with a diet that includes crunchy kibble and chew toys, can help keep your cat’s teeth clean and healthy.
2. Myth: Cats don’t need to have their teeth brushed if they eat wet food.
Fact: Wet food alone is not enough to keep your cat’s teeth clean. The proteins and fats present in wet food can still lead to plaque buildup, meaning that cats still need to have their teeth brushed regularly.
3. Myth: Cats don’t like having their teeth brushed.
Fact: While cats may not enjoy the process of having their teeth brushed, they can learn to tolerate it with patience and positive reinforcement. The earlier you start brushing your cat’s teeth, the more comfortable they will be with the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you don’t brush cat teeth?
If you do not brush your cat’s teeth, it can lead to a buildup of plaque and tartar which can cause gingivitis and other periodontal disease. This can result in discomfort and pain for your cat, and even tooth loss if the conditions are not treated.
How often should I brush my cat’s teeth?
It is recommended that you brush your cat’s teeth at least twice a week to maintain optimal dental health. Be sure to use a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for cats. If your cat resists brushing, try introducing it gradually and offering rewards after brushing sessions.
Conclusion
Cats need assistance with their oral hygiene and regular brushing is essential to prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay and painful symptoms. Without proper care, cats can suffer from painful symptoms and life-threatening infections. It is best to start brushing a cat’s teeth at a young age and take them to the vet for regular check-ups. These measures can help ensure that a cat’s teeth remain healthy and free of disease.
