Cat Dental Cleaning: What To Expect and Benefits for Your Pet

Dental care is important for every pet, including cats. Many cat owners may not realize that cats can experience dental issues, just like humans and dogs. Regular dental cleanings play a key role in keeping your cat’s mouth healthy and preventing serious health problems. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to expect during a cat dental assessment, the benefits for your pet, and why scheduling a dental appointment with us at Houston Pet Dental can make a difference. If you have any questions or want to book an appointment, feel free to contact us at (832) 702-7599.

What Happens During a Cat Dental Cleaning?

When your cat comes in for a dental cleaning, we focus on removing plaque and tartar that can lead to more serious health problems. Furthermore, we look at their root structures to ensure there are no resorptive lesions forming. These lesions are one of the most common diseases that plagues our feline friends. The process starts with a thorough physical exam, history, and lab work to ensure your cat is healthy enough for the procedure.

Once your cat is cleared for the procedure, they will receive premedication to reduce anxiety and pain. Dental cleanings can be stressful for pets. Full gas anesthesia is absolutely necessary to keep your cat relaxed to prevent any sudden movements that could cause injury. Safely securing their airway safeguards their lungs from aerolized bacteria created from the deep cleaning. Under anesthesia, we can comfortably clean below the gumline and probe the oral cavity for any evidence of bone loss.

Our team will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar from your cat’s teeth. We also polish the teeth to smooth out any rough spots, which helps prevent plaque from sticking in the future. Taking full mouth dental X-rays is essential to ensure the entire tooth is healthy to check for any disease below the surface, such as damaged roots or infections that aren’t visible during a non-anesthetized exam. After the cleaning is complete, we’ll review the findings with you and discuss any recommendations, such as extractions or follow-up care.

How Does Cat Dental Cleaning Benefit Your Pet?

Cat dental cleanings provide multiple health benefits that extend far beyond the mouth. One of the main advantages is the prevention of dental disease and pain. Your cat will rarely show visible signs of oral pain. Plaque and tartar build-up can cause gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth loss if left untreated. Cleaning your cat’s teeth helps reduce the chances of these conditions developing.

Another benefit is improving your cat’s overall health. Dental disease doesn’t just stay in the mouth; it can impact other parts of the body. Bacteria from infected gums and teeth can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. A professional cleaning helps reduce this risk, keeping your cat healthier for longer.

Additionally, dental cleanings can improve your cat’s quality of life. Dental pain can make it difficult for your cat to eat, groom, and play, leading to changes in behavior and even weight loss. Cats with oral pain may develop certain patterns. Skipping meals, preferring canned food, dropping food, drooling, or staring at their food dish without readily eating. By maintaining good dental hygiene, you help your cat stay active, comfortable, and happy.

How Often Should Cats Get Dental Cleanings?

The frequency of dental cleanings depends on your cat’s individual needs. Some cats may need annual cleanings, while others might benefit from them more frequently, especially if they’re prone to dental disease. Kittens and younger cats usually don’t need cleanings as often as older cats, but regular check-ups can help detect any issues early. Just like our own children may need braces from an early age some cats need early intervention.

During your cat’s anesthetic oral exam and assessment, we’ll assess their dental health and recommend the best schedule for cleanings. In addition to professional cleanings, you can support your cat’s dental care by brushing their teeth at home and providing dental treats or toys designed to promote healthy gums and teeth. However, professional cleanings are the only way to fully remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline, so it’s important not to skip these appointments.

What Can You Do to Support Your Cat’s Dental Health at Home?

While professional dental cleanings are essential, you can also help maintain your cat’s dental health at home. Brushing your cat’s teeth is one of the most effective ways to prevent plaque and tartar build-up. You’ll need a toothbrush and toothpaste designed specifically for cats, as human toothpaste can be harmful to them. Start slow, allowing your cat to get used to the sensation, and gradually increase the frequency until you can brush daily.

You can also incorporate dental chews, treats, and toys into your cat’s routine. These products are designed to help remove plaque and freshen your cat’s breath. However, they should complement, not replace, professional cleanings.

Pay attention to any signs that your cat may be experiencing dental problems. Bad breath, drooling, pawing at the mouth, difficulty eating, or discolored teeth can all be indicators of dental disease. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible to prevent further complications.

Why Choose Houston Pet Dental for Your Cat’s Dental Cleaning?

At Houston Pet Dental, we understand the unique needs of cats when it comes to dental care. Our team has extensive experience in performing safe and effective dental cleanings, ensuring your cat is comfortable and well-cared for throughout the entire process. We use advanced equipment and techniques to deliver thorough cleanings and can address the most common dental issues your cat may have.

Our clinic is equipped gas anesthesia and monitoring systems to keep your cat safe during the procedure. A dedicated team member closely monitors your cat’s vital signs maximizing their comfort and safety throughout the cleaning. In addition, we provide personalized dental care recommendations based on your cat’s specific needs, helping you maintain their oral health long after the cleaning.

Your cat’s health is our priority, and our dental services are designed to prevent problems before they start. By staying proactive about dental care, you can help your cat live a longer, healthier life.

Schedule Your Cat’s Dental Cleaning Today

If you’re ready to take the next step in protecting your cat’s dental health, we’re here to help. Whether your cat needs a routine cleaning or you’ve noticed signs of dental issues, scheduling an appointment with us is the best way to ensure your pet receives the care they need. Call us today at (832) 702-7599 to learn more about our services or to book an appointment for your cat’s dental cleaning. We look forward to helping your cat enjoy a healthier, pain-free life.