How to brush your cat's teeth at home, by Double Churches Animal Clinic on YouTube. 2 min 31 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 31 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Pick a quiet time when your cat is relaxed, such as after a meal or play session. Sit on the floor so your cat can leave if it wants.
Let your cat sniff the toothbrush and toothpaste. Put a small dab of toothpaste on your finger and let your cat lick it off.
Repeat the toothpaste taste test for two or three days until your cat accepts it without pulling away.
Lift your cat's lip gently with one finger and rub a little toothpaste along the outer gum line with your finger.
Switch to the toothbrush once your cat is calm. Put a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on the bristles.
Brush the outer surfaces of the back teeth first, using small circles at a 45 degree angle to the gum line.
Work forward to the front teeth and the canine teeth. Lift the lip as needed and keep each stroke short.
Aim for 30 to 60 seconds of brushing on each side. Stop early if your cat struggles and try again later.
Finish with praise and a treat. Rinse the brush with water and store it upright to dry.
Tips and common mistakes
Never use human toothpaste, since fluoride and xylitol are toxic to cats.
Brush at the same time each day so your cat learns the routine.
If your cat fights hard, wrap it loosely in a towel with the head free.
Check for red gums, bad breath or loose teeth and book a vet visit if you see them.
Questions
How often should I brush my cat's teeth?
Daily is best for controlling plaque. Three or four times a week still helps a lot.
Can I use a human toothbrush?
A soft child's brush can work, but a cat toothbrush or finger brush fits the mouth better.
What if my cat won't let me brush?
Start with finger rubbing and toothpaste only, and build up over a week or two. Ask your vet for dental chews or gels in the meantime.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
