6. This guide is designed to go over why taking care of your cat’s teeth is so important and how to know if you are buying the right treats to help keep them healthy. We will review your request and confirm your appointment as soon as possible. This treatment sounds drastic, but stomatitis is painful and makes it difficult to eat, so tooth removal provides quite a bit of relief. A balanced diet includes plenty of fruit and vegetables, as well as starchy foods , such as bread, rice, potatoes and pasta (choose wholegrain versions and … © 2021 Michelson Found Animals Foundation, Inc, Chewing with just one side of the mouth or moving food around the mouth. Start slow and let your cat gradually warm up to it. Let’s check out some of the favorites. The cold weather can be hard for many people. Contact our offices today and speak to our knowledgeable veterinary team at 619-547-0900. You can tell a great deal about the health of a furry friend from the appearance of their skin and fur. Let us know on Facebook! Gum disease is a serious issue that is often painless and difficult to identify. Healthy Gums vs. Myth #2: Yellow teeth are unhealthy. Take your cat in for cleanings twice a year. Exercise is essential to keep any animal healthy, and your cat is no exception. You can also notice it during grooming or face washing. Unfortunately, not everyone knows this and some don’t really believe it. Most cat owners know that their feline friends are very good at keeping themselves clean. Play foods or pictures of foods—both tooth healthy (fruits, vegetables, cheese, meats, etc.) Healthy Gums vs. Unhealthy Gums. According to the findings from the latest research by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), as many as 58% of felines in the U.S. are overweight, and 28% are considered obese. Plus, cats use their tongue to eat so they’ll still be able to eat food and drink water. To help you get started, here are our top tips for welcoming your new cat into your home. It usually happens when a cat eats. X-rays, polishing and removal of diseased teeth will be done under anesthesia. The repeated motion of stroking this delicious texture over and over can be incredibly calming and relaxing for you – and your furry friend almost certainly enjoys it too! This is especially so for outdoor cats, which often encounter different parasites. They should be a healthy pink color, and … A healthy diet is good for your teeth What you eat and drink can cause tooth decay, so a healthy diet is important for your teeth. 5 Adult cats can be pretty resistant to having their teeth cleaned, so it’s a good idea to get them used to this process and to having your fingers in their mouth from when they’re kittens. Too much saliva, however, could be a sign of an unhealthy build-up of bacteria that could be causing gum disease. For more information, call 619-547-0900 today! Contact us at 619-547-0900 for more information and to schedule an appointment with us today. Tartar-control treats and chews alone are not sufficient for effectively cleaning your cat’s teeth, but they can be used in moderation alongside a daily toothbrushing routine and a healthy diet. heatstroke), an illness or a toxicity. One of the best ways to do this is to brush her teeth as often as possible – daily is ideal – using special feline toothpaste. You can use healthy mouthwash, use toothpaste designed for dogs. Our mission of saving pets, enriching lives is made possible by the generous contributions of Dr. Gary Michelson and Alya Michelson. Know more about some factors on why your feline friend refuses to eat. Proper oral care can prevent many health conditions as your cat ages. One of the first things your new companion will learn is how to use the litter box. Found Animals receives a portion of the proceeds from every purchase made after clicking on the links. Be informed of the proper food you should feed your furry friend to avoid diabetes and other chronic diseases. This leads to pain, infection and potentially loss of teeth. The general condition of your cat's skin and coat are good indicators of her health. If you want to know what healthy dog gums look like, look no further than the seafood bar at your local grocery store. Nothing brings a smile to your face quite like when your feline friend is having fun! Know more about catnips and how it affects the behavior of cats. Read the benefits of cat companionship at The Little Cat Clinic. Few things are more adorable than a cat. Although the prospect of brushing your feline’s teeth may seem daunting and difficult, patience and practise will enable you to get to grips with the process quicker than you think. As a pet parent, you know your dog best and understand the wet and dry patterns of your dogs’s nose.. That being said, a warm, dry nose can often indicate dehydration, but it’s not always a fail-safe indicator. One of the best ways to keep an eye on your cat’s health is by maintaining good oral hygiene. A feline friend is an ideal choice if you're looking for a loyal and friendly pet companion. and what healthy food it could be replaced with. Know more about it here. a … Teeth should be free of tartar or plaque. A healthy coat should be shiny and smooth, not brittle or coarse, and healthy skin should be supple and clear, not greasy, flaky, or bumpy. If color doesn’t quickly return to the gum line then they are sick or dehydrated and require veterinary care immediately. is beneficial. Most veterinarians would agree that it the best way of knowing that your cat has healthy teeth is to recognize signs that might indicate that dental disease is developing. By taking care of your cat’s gum health now, you can avoid these serious complications. Cats might be resistant, but it’s worth the effort. See more ideas about dental health month, dental health, health activities. Gum disease may progress to such a point where your cat develops stomatitis, a condition in which there are sores in the mouth. Examine the Teeth . Some cats are pretty resistant to at-home dental care, so we recommend trying a bunch of different options. Learn more about some guidelines on how to help prevent your feline friend from hairballs. To be a responsible pet owner, it is important to select a pet that fits with your family, lifestyle and current commitments. The best way to prevent the pain, inconvenience and financial burden of gum disease is to keep your cat’s teeth and gums clean. When it comes to the health and wellness of your cat, parasite prevention plays a very important role. Then, observe the color of the gums. Learn more about some first aid tips for your furry feline friends. In cases such as these, your cat might need all of their teeth removed. They should try to make the healthy food somewhat similar to the unhealthy food (e.g. Healthy Mouth. Learn more here. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it would indicate that your pet’s teeth are unhealthy and you should seek the advice of our veterinarian as soon as possible: - Persistently pawing or rubbing the mouth. The colder weather is set to remain for at least a few more months. If you are concerned that your cat’ teeth may not be as healthy as they could be, it is time to contact us and schedule an appointment with our veterinarian so that he/she can perform a thorough assessment of the dental health of your friendly feline. If you have healthy gums, they will look firm and pink. If you have healthy gums, they will look firm and pink. Beginning with one side of the mouth, examine your cat's back teeth. Unhealthy Mouth VS Healthy Mouth. The teeth are considered unhealthy if their color is attributed to plaque buildup or staining. Whether a kitten or a full-grown adult, they have unique personalities, usually with a comedic twist. Details: Healthy Dog Gums vs Unhealthy Published on May 15, 2019 March 27, 2020 by northg84994 Good oral hygiene in dogs is essential to prevent the occurrence of infection and gum diseases which can result in teeth loss. Unhealthy Gums. However, this does not mean that you should leave your cat in an overheated room or a closed car during summer. if … Contact 619-547-0900 for details. Top 10 Health Tips for Older Cats and Dogs in La Mesa, Ca, Pet Care 101 – How To Train Your Cat To Use The Litter Box, How To Familiarize Your Cat With A Carrier. Unhealthy Gums February 8, 2018 by indiescience in Oral Health • Prevention One reason gum disease is so prevalent is because early symptoms are mild and easy to ignore. horrible breath. Celebrate and learn more about the importance of a healthy smile and good dental habits. Professional cleans performed by our vet will also go a long way to preventing dental disease from occurring. However, just as many owners would prefer to keep their kitty safe indoors and for good reason. Symptoms of an unhealthy and healthy mouth . One of the most common pieces of advice we hear about dogs is to pay attention to the wetness of their nose. Despite appearing very happy to lounge around most of the time, they also enjoy the opportunity to get involved in some more strenuous activities. Knowing how to tell the difference between healthy vs. unhealthy gums helps you prevent and treat oral issues before they affect your whole body. Many cat owners feel guilty for not having realized that their cats were suffering. An important part of owning a cat is taking it in for routine pet wellness exams. Your vet might even recommend that your cat have cleanings as often as every three months. Sign up today for our pet parent newsletter. February is National Children's Dental Health Month. Your cat’s teeth are incredibly important to her natural instincts. Saliva is a natural part of a healthy body, helping to fight off germs in your mouth and prevent bad breath, as well as aiding tasting and swallowing. ... Brush your dog’s teeth daily. Not only do they allow her to eat, her teeth are also used to attack, grip and kill prey in the wild – a predisposition that carries over into domestic animals regardless of the fact that they have their food handed to them on a plate – or in most cases, a bowl! Some signs of unhealthy gums include redness and swelling, gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, and gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth. This is because mother nature has given them the tools needed to do just that. Call 619-547-0900 for details. Some signs of unhealthy gums include redness and swelling, gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, and gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth. Spaying/Neutering your pet prevents the overpopulation crisis & keeps them healthy. It can click or pop out of socket if it gets unhealthy," said Dr. Gause. For more information, contact us today at 619-547-0900. However, the secret to healthy teeth might be in your child’s lunchbox! saliva glands are blocked. Know about the correct diet for your feline friend at The Little Cat Clinic. Having off-white teeth is often healthy. Cats can cope with summer conditions quite well. Let us know on, What You Should Know About COVID-19 at Dutch Mink Farm, Ten Tips for a Successful Virtual Vet Consult. Here is everything you need to know about keeping your cat hydrated this summer. Healthy feline teeth should be fairly white in color, appear clean and in good condition e.g. If you have any questions about pet sitters & the care that they offer for felines in your area, please call The Little Cat Clinic at 619-547-0900. Need more health tips for older cats and dogs? no obvious cracks or breaks. Select more tooth healthy than tooth unhealthy foods. If you have further questions, please call Little Cat Clinic at 619.547.0900. Cats are a great addition to any home and family, and you will adapt to caring for them in no time at all. An apple a … These surgeries are necessary for the health and well-being of your furry companions. They also have forepaws that they can moisten with their own saliva, which they then use to wash their faces. Cats might be resistant, but it’s worth the effort. Nevertheless, taking proper care of your kitty’s teeth should be a large priority. Teeth chattering is a painful condition that turns tooth roots to the bone. This can be an easy process, so when it comes to how to train your cat to use the litter box a little patience goes a long way. For Optional Activities: “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” song lyrics “Snacks for Healthy Teeth” book by Mari Schuh Gum disease, also called gingivitis, is chronic gum inflammation that gets worse over time. When Is The Right Time To Spay/Neuter Your Pet? It causes holes in the teeth that are cavity-like. Perhaps this is your first pet whatsoever. The PetAlive Oral-Assist for Healthy Teeth and Gums in Dogs and Cats dental supplement is an alcohol-free, natural, homeopathic product. What are Signs that my Cat’s Teeth are Healthy? Cat teeth chattering is always a strong sign of a dental problem. Unfortunately, not all pets are able to adapt to the changing seasons as well as we can. and tooth unhealthy (cookies, cake, chips, crackers, granola bars, raisins, etc.). “Healthy gums should appear shrimp-colored pink,” says Dan Carmichael, DVM, DAVDC and board-certified veterinary dentist at the Animal Medical Center. If you're planning to travel, contact us to know more about pet boarding services. Healthy vs. Best Foods for Healthy Teeth Apples. Choosing to take on a pet is a big decision, particularly if you haven’t been a pet parent to that particular type of animal before. There are plenty of different types of brushes and toothpastes available that you can try. The Little Cat Clinic is a Cat Friendly Practice certified by the American Association of Feline Practitioners. a healthy mouth vs an unhealthy mouth It might seem a little bit strange, but a dog’s oral health is very important. As periodontitis progresses, tissue and bone that support teeth are lost, causing loose teeth. Chattering teeth at cats can be loud enough for you to hear it. Eventually you’ll find something that works! ... That means teeth without plaque and teeth without tartar. Contact The Little Cat Clinic La Mesa, CA for an appt 619-547-0900. As always, at-home brushing is beneficial. As a responsible and compassionate pet owner, you will want to ensure that your cat’s teeth are as healthy as possible. You'll want to look for yellowing (plaque) or darker material (tartar), as well as any cracked or broken teeth. Coat: Should be shiny and clean. One of the most soothing things about petting a long-haired cat is the feel of soft, silky fur between your fingers. It might help boost the strength of your cat’s teeth, as well as reduce inflammation and help with healing other oral health issues. If so, don’t fret! All cats have barbed tongues, the little hooks of which help to remove dirt and debris from their fur and keep their coats smooth and unmated. Your pet should be able to grip things in his teeth without any signs of discomfort and be able to eat without dropping food. However, if the redness surrounds the teeth and/or along the gum line (as shown in this photo) your cat could be experiencing dental health problems. Weight: Active cats are rarely overweight. Know if the teeth of your feline friend are healthy. For more information, call 619-547-0900. Selective breeding has led to the development of cats with a myriad of different coat characteristics requiring varying grooming needs. Unfortunately, not everyone knows this and some don’t really believe it. Just like you, your teeth need a healthy diet for them to grow and maintain healthy, which is why the food and beverage choices you make may cause tooth decay or risk cavities. As periodontitis progresses, tissue and bone that support teeth are lost, causing loose teeth. Other signs of an unhealthy cat include pale gums. The Importance of a Healthy Mouth Cats are carnivores and their bodies are designed to hunt and eat prey. With just a few training tips, you’ll have a litter-trained kitty in short order. You should also establish a dental hygiene routine for your cat that includes regular teeth cleaning. If mouth bacteria are the source of your cat’s woes, your vet might recommend a prescription antiseptic being added to your cat’s drinking water. When it comes to being a responsible pet parent, one of the most important things to get right is your pet’s nutrition. Mom nose best. With their partner, they will have to tell what exactly makes that food unhealthy (greasy, salty, sugary, fatty, etc.) Healthy and unhealthy foods for your teeth – In conclusion, we recommend eating a balanced diet incorporating some foods above. Our preschool and kindergarten dental health activities help children to get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. You should check your cat's teeth at least once a month for signs of decay and disease. A prescription diet might also be suggested to reduce the accumulation of plaque and tartar. Stark differences exist between an indoor and outdoor cat. It affects the gums right where the tooth and gums meet. Know more about some tips and guidelines on how to familiarize your cat with a carrier. Gums should be pink. The world can be a dangerous place for any animal, including even the most streetwise feline. Healthy Gums vs. Learn more about your furry friend's behaviors and its message. Unhealthy Mouth . It also helps cats enjoy their food and quiet time because they don’t have dental pain. A night guard made by a dentist can greatly decrease the damage that occurs to teeth and jaw from nocturnal grinding. But it can be especially difficult for animal companions that depend on their pet parents to guarantee their well-being. Learn what to expect during a pet wellness exam here. This will remove any bacteria and debris from her teeth and prevent plaque, which eventually causes periodontal disease if left untreated, from forming. These help remove plaque, tartar and bacteria and are free of parabens and alcohol. It’s a result of accumulation of tartar, plaque and bacteria on the teeth and gum line. Sometimes, your gums may “pull away” or recede from your teeth. If your dog isn’t too keen on the idea of having his or her teeth brushed, there are a few alternatives. Most veterinarians would agree that it the best way of knowing that your cat has healthy teeth is to recognize signs that might indicate that dental disease is developing. These profits go toward saving more homeless animals! PetAlive Oral-Assist for Healthy Teeth and Gums in Dogs and Cats. "Grinding of teeth can negatively impact the jaw joint, which is a similar type joint as the elbow or knee. Braces, by itself, do not make teeth … Know how to stop aggression in your furry friend at The Little Cat Clinic. mouth ulcers on the gums. As pet owners, we are always looking for different ways to better the lives of our animals. Cat Dental Hygiene and Oral Care: Top Tips, Keeping Your Pets Safe This Summer: Hot Weather Tips (Cats), Outdoor Cats and How to Protect Them From Parasites, Top tips for keeping your indoor cat healthy and happy, Reasons to Hire a Pet Sitter for your Cat, Top tips on how to reduce hairballs in La Mesa, CA. Contact us and schedule an appointment today. It should be fairly obvious, but apparently not enough for me to have written in this staring-me-in-the-face advice the first draft of the article around: getting your cat’s teeth professionally cleaned by a vet whenever he or she needs it goes a ridiculously far way in helping your cat’s teeth stay healthy … This is uncomfortable for your kitty and results in costly veterinary bills. Discover the tooth-friendly foods you should incorporate into every meal, and what you need to avoid! Has your cat ever had gum disease? Loose teeth Food has a big impact on their teeth-for better or for worse. Your vet might even recommend that your cat have cleanings as often as every three months. The American Association of Feline Practitioners recognizes the importance of oral care and dental hygiene in cats. Most cats learn to tolerate it fairly soon too. This article contains affiliate links. You can also do your part by working on your cat’s oral hygiene at home. Regularly brushing your dog’s teeth can lessen the risk of potential infections or diseases that come with unhealthy teeth and gums. You will also need to arrange for your kitty to have regular dental check-ups with our veterinarian. Poor oral hygiene leads to periodontitis, an inflammatory condition in the gums that has been linked to serious medical problems including diabetes, kidney disorder, liver disease, cardiovascular disease and cancer. It might seem a little bit strange, but a dog’s oral health is very important. That is why we want to showcase some of the top toys for cats that will not only keep them active and entertained, but is sure to be a joy to watch for all pet owners. X-rays, polishing and removal of diseased teeth will be done under anesthesia. Read more about how to keep your feline friend healthy and stronger for more years and contact our veterinarian at 619-547-0900 for details. How to keep your cat’s teeth clean. Here’s what you need to know about exercise for felines. Contact The Little Cat Clinic in La Mesa, CA today by calling 619-547-0900. Healthy teeth and gums are important to your cat's overall health. Here is your guide to healthy cat gums! Ask your vet if they recommend a specific. The good and bad foods each of us chooses daily can make a big difference in the health of our mouth. Has your cat ever had gum disease? Just like humans, cats can suffer heatstroke and dehydration as well. Myth #3: Braces contribute to yellowing of teeth. How to Identify Healthy vs. So the question is, “how do we detect gingivitis?” Healthy gum tissue typically has a coral pink color. Your cat’s teeth are an incredibly important to her natural instincts. Teeth that are not perfectly white can still be healthy. Ask your veterinarian for advice on providing the right cat food to maintain your cat's healthy weight. Some owners are very happy to let their animals roam as they please during the day, enjoying their company when they return home to eat, sleep or see their human family. Most emergency veterinarians will admit that they often treat cats when they are in very dire condition.