Signs Your Cat May Have Dental Disease

 

Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:

• Bad breath

• Red, swollen or bleeding gums

• Yellow or brown tartar buildup on the teeth

• Difficulty eating or chewing

• Dropping food from the mouth

• Pawing at the mouth or face

• Excessive drooling

• Loose or missing teeth

• Reluctance to eat hard food

• Weight loss

• Facial swelling or discharge around the mouth

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Never ignore these symptoms, as untreated dental disease can be extremely painful and may require extensive veterinary treatment.

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Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)

 

When choosing dental products, look for those approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). Products carrying the VOHC Seal have been independently tested and shown to help reduce plaque and/or tartar.

For a current list of approved products, visit the Veterinary Oral Health Council:

• VOHC Accepted Products for Cats

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Daily Dental Care

 

The best way to prevent dental disease is through regular home care combined with routine veterinary examinations.

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Brush Your Cat's Teeth

 

Daily brushing is considered the gold standard for preventing plaque and tartar build-up. Use a soft toothbrush or finger brush together with a toothpaste specifically made for cats.

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Never use human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients that can be toxic to cats.

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If your cat is not used to brushing, start slowly by gently rubbing the teeth with a soft cloth dipped in plain tuna juice or unsalted chicken broth before progressing to a cat-safe toothpaste.

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Natural Ways to Support Dental Health

 

Some owners choose to incorporate natural approaches into their cat's dental routine. While these methods may help support oral health, they should complement—not replace—regular veterinary care and tooth brushing.

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Dietary Support

• Appropriate raw meaty bones or large chunks of suitable raw food (fed safely and under veterinary guidance) may help reduce plaque through chewing.

• Specially formulated dental diets are designed to mechanically clean the teeth during chewing.

 

Natural Supplements

• Seaweed supplements containing Ascophyllum nodosum may help reduce plaque formation and soften tartar.

• Herbs such as calendula and plantain may help soothe inflamed gums.

• Antioxidants, zinc and Coenzyme Q10 are sometimes used to support healthy gum tissue.

 

Water Additives

• Natural water additives can help reduce oral bacteria and freshen breath between brushings. 

• TropiClean Fresh Breath Cat Dental Water Additive is a veterinarian-endorsed, brush-free dental care product that is recognised by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for helping to control plaque and tartar build-up. Simply add it to your cat's drinking water as directed to support daily oral hygiene.

• Water additives work best as part of a complete dental care routine rather than as a replacement for brushing or professional veterinary care.

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Coconut Oil

 

Some holistic veterinarians recommend coconut oil because of its natural antimicrobial properties. It may help reduce bacteria in the mouth and can be gently applied to the gums or used in very small amounts when brushing. Read more here: Why Coconut Oil Is Great for Cats

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Professional Dental Cleaning

 

Even with excellent home care, some cats will eventually require professional dental cleaning performed by a veterinarian under general anaesthesia. This allows the teeth to be thoroughly cleaned above and below the gumline, where most dental disease develops. Your veterinarian will advise when a professional dental procedure is recommended.