Most cats appear happy and healthy until they are not. Because we know that cats hide illness, we must prioritize preventative care to ensure their safety and wellbeing. Today, we're discussing one of the most significant steps cat parents can take regarding feline preventative care - dental hygiene. A few weeks ago, we covered the importance of dental health in dogs. Today we're diving into National Pet Dental Health Month & Cats even if February is National Pet Dental Health Month.
National Pet Dental Health Month & Cats: Diet
First and foremost, cats should only be fed a wet food diet. Feeding cats wet food is about cats' whole body health, not just their dental health. That said, wet food is better for the teeth than kibble. Although many of us were taught that the crunch of kibble is good for maintaining healthy teeth, kibble formulas today do not do anything but create tarter build-up and tooth decay.
While there are more high-end ways to feed cats including commercial raw, freeze-dried foods, etc,, choosing the best wet/canned food you can afford for your cat is a great way to improve your cat's dental hygiene with minimal effort. Avoiding kibble entirely is another great way to prevent tooth damage. Additional benefits of feeding a kibble-free diet, including hydration and related complications, can be found here.
National Pet Dental Health Month & Cats: Chews
If you walk into a pet store, you'll find sections full of dog chews that will have your mind spinning. From beef liver sticks to salmon skin, dehydrated chews are all the rage for dogs, as are veterinary dental chews and treats.
What about cats? Do they get to enjoy dental chews? Well, that all depends on your cat.
There are many dental cat chews on the market. Many of them are highly processed and contain ingredients that aren't ideal for your pet to consume regularly. But, don't fret, there is one specific cat toy/treat/dental chew that will have your cat's teeth sparkling while providing ample enjoyment: silvervine sticks! Ryercat has them online and makes theirs using premium, 1000% natural ingredients to stimulate your cat's senses, keep their breath fresh and teeth sparking, while encouraging play and relaxation.
Silvervine is a climbing plant native to China, Japan, and Russia that produces white flowers and silver-white leaves. It's also known as Japanese catnip, matatabi, and cat powder. When purchasing silvervine, always opt for the highest quality to ensure your cat isn't getting pesticides and other chemicals while enjoying this fun and tasty treat.
National Pet Dental Health Month & Cats: Brushing
We get it, most pet parents have little time to brush their own teeth, let alone their cat's teeth. Yet, most veterinarians agree that at-home tooth brushing is key to proper dental hygiene in pets.
If 2024 is the year that you're going to make your cat's dental health a priority, visit Ryercat and purchase their exceptional cat toothbrush, designed with a cat's mouth in mind. Winners of Purina's 2024 Pet Care Innovation Prize, Ryercat's toothbrush is small enough for a cat's mouth, considers sensitive areas in their mouths, is made with sustainable materials, and uses charcoal-infused bristles to neutralize bacteria.
In addition to making a great product, Ryercat offers education on how to gently and seamlessly brush your cat's teeth. They are currently working on a cat toothpaste and we cannot wait to see what these innovative cat lovers come up with!
National Pet Dental Health Month & Cats: Veterinary Care
While at-home care and prevention are key to a cat's dental health, an annual visit to the veterinarian for a full health check is key to addressing issues before they become serious.
In addition, veterinary dental cleanings every one to two years are recommended to not only prevent tooth decay but also prevent tooth-related pain, infection, and more. Together with at-home care, thorough dental cleanings can lengthen your cat's life and extend their quality of life into their senior years.
At Hearts at Home Pet Sitting, we have a heard for kitties. We love to see them playing, running, and thriving at all ages. We wish more of our clients understood the importance of proper dental care in cats and how easy it can be to get cats to cooperate with proper training. Because our cats can live as long as 20 years in some cases, why not start your cat on a dental regimen today?
We provide in-home dog walking and pet sitting services in Yorktown, Poquoson, Newport News, and Hampton, Virginia. If you are interested in registering your cat(s) with us, please complete a new client questionnaire here. Existing clients may request cat sitting services here.
Please visit our website or contact us by email at Hello@HeartsAtHomePetSitting.com or by phone at 757-745-9868 to learn more. Meow!
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