Question:
My cat has a problem with gingivitis. I had his teeth cleaned and
that helped, but the vet recommended Listerene applied with a
pad, and he can't stand it. He likes cat toothpaste, which one
vet says helps and another one says doesn't. Any ideas?
Answer:
I have been brushing my (two) cats' teeth every other day.
I started doing it at the suggestion of my vet and it has really helped
prevent plaque and gingivitus. I use a soft, child's size toothbrush (a
separate one for each cat) and no toothpaste. I just wet each toothbrush
with water. The vet said it's only necessary to brush the outer side of
their teeth, no need to to get behind the teeth. The cats are not too
happy with the procedure but they accept it. One of my cats is four years
old and has never needed to have his teeth cleaned by the vet. Try it.
My cat had the same problem, but he didn't like the toothpaste either.
Now I found from the purina company treads, called "Whisker lickins"
Tartar Control. they are very crunchy and hard, which scrapes away the
plaque and tartar on his teeth.
He is really wild about them, they come in two flavors, and since
then never had any problems with his gums again.
Thinking about it, it makes sense, wild cats crunch on bones too, and
I don't remember having heard anything about a wild cat with
gingivitis,
What about 'Logic' gel? You get it from vets. You just apply a drop of
gel to the front teeth and it has enzymes that digest tartar. My friend
uses it on her Siamese.
