Brush up on cat dental hygiene

PAMPERED PETS DR DAVID GRANT Our vet offers his advice

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My two young cats are fed soft food, which they enjoy. I am wondering if cats get dental disease and if there are any studies on how common it is. It's very difficult to look inside their mouths - what signs should I look out for?

Dental problems are common in cats, which is not surprising, due to the fact it is very difficult for most owners to brush the teeth. Just as with us, daily brushing of teeth is a key factor in dental health.

If it's any consolation, even with my cats it was always difficult to inspect their teeth, not due to aggression, just an ability to wriggle and make things extraordinarily difficult.

Tooth decay starts early with kittens frequently having signs of gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). A study by the Royal Veterinary College Compass team identified periodontal disease, the most severe form of tooth decay, as a top clinical reason for cat veterinary consultations.