What is involved in cat dental care?
A lot of times we're going to ask you to brush their teeth if they'll allow it, and then do some cat dental treats.
Dr. Amanda German
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital
How has dental health impacted the overall health and well-being of my cat?
Everything goes down through the mouth. So, if you don't have good oral care, then you're going to have poor nutrition. Also, the bacteria in the mouth could then start going to the rest of the body.
What types of dental care should I be giving my cat at home?
Definitely some dental treats, but if they'll allow it, I would definitely be brushing their teeth as well.
What are some signs and symptoms of overall health?
Signs and symptoms of overall dental health would be, if you're worried about them having some issues, halitosis or bad breath, tartar buildup. Sometimes you'll see some lesions on there, some ulcers or some masses. You're looking for anything that's abnormal in there.
How do vets diagnose dental problems in cats?
We're going to do a good full oral exam.
What conditions can be caused by poor dental care and how can they be treated?
They could get cavities or caries. They can get a lot of tartar accumulation. They could get some resorptive lesions. They can get masses. And those all require a dental, just a pure dental cleaning and potentially even removal of things.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram
Cat Dental - FAQs 1
Dr. Amanda German
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital
Why does my cat need anesthesia during a dental cleaning/
Anesthesia is required to ensure that your cat remains still during the procedure. This allows us to successfully clean beneath the gum line and throughout all of the teeth for a thorough deep clean.
Can my cat receive a deep cleaning without anesthesia?
There are a few places that offer this option, but achieving a comprehensive deep clean is generally not possible without the use of anesthesia.
Why would pain medications and antibiotics be needed after my cat's dental procedure?
Pain medications and antibiotics are typically administered post-procedure if your cat has severe infections. They assist in managing pain and preventing further infection.
How will my cat react to having anesthesia?
Ideally, your cat should not exhibit any adverse reactions to anesthesia. If a previous reaction has occurred, we take extra precautions. We usually conduct blood work and a physical exam prior to administering anesthesia to ensure your cat's safety.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram
Cat Dental - FAQs 2
Dr. Amanda German
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital
Is there anything I could do to help prepare my cat for a dental appointment?
You're always going to make sure that they're going to be fasted ahead of time. That way when we need to use some sedation, we can.
Why will my cat need anesthesia for her teeth cleaning?
That way we can get underneath that gum line and do a good thorough dental cleaning.
Who monitors my cat while under anesthesia?
We have veterinary technicians that are monitoring them during and after the procedure.
Will my cat be getting radiographs?
We always do radiographs with any dental procedure. That way we can look and see if there's anything underneath the gum line for us to take care of.
Will my cat be intubated when having a dental cleaning?
Yes, they most certainly will. That way we don't get any water down into those lungs when we're cleaning those teeth.
How long does a dental appointment take?
A dental cleaning can take anywhere from about an hour to four hours.
If my cat needs extractions, will pain medications be given?
Always. We don't want these babies to be in any pain if we can help it.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram
Cat Dental - FAQs 3
Dr. Amanda German
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital
What is my vet looking for in a cat dental exam?
In a cat dental exam, we're looking for any lesions, tartar, or just overall anything abnormal.
What kind of dental or oral problems can a cat have?
Cats can have feline resorptive lesions, masses, periodontal disease where there's a lot of tartar buildup, and gingivitis.
Why would my cat need x-rays?
X-rays are needed to look underneath the gum line to see if there's any disease going on underneath.
Why would my cat need extractions?
A cat would need extractions if they have a cavity, severe infection, or a resorptive lesion where the body is actively attacking the roots.
Will these issues be addressed on my initial exam or will I need a follow-up?
Sometimes, we can address everything on the initial exam. However, at times, we may need to have a follow-up just to make sure everything's moving in the correct direction.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram
Cat Dental - FAQs 4
Dr. Amanda German
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital
How often should I brush my cat's teeth?
If possible, you should aim to brush your cat's teeth every day. However, if that's not achievable, at least once a week would be best.
Are there any tips on how to brush my cat's teeth?
Yes, you'll need a soft bristle toothbrush and a treat your cat enjoys, such as tuna. This way, they can become accustomed to the taste and the brushing process.
What kind of products should I use for my cat?
You should use a soft bristle toothbrush, a cat enzymatic toothpaste, and dental-related cat treats.
Can I use a human toothbrush for my cat's teeth?
You can use a human toothbrush for your cat, but it must be new. You shouldn't use a toothbrush that's been used before.
Should I still brush their teeth after giving them a greenie?
Yes, you should. While a greenie can help decrease some of the tartar and plaque, brushing their teeth will help remove it.
Can cats get cavities?
Yes, cats can get cavities. In veterinary terms, we call them caries.
Are there any chew toys for my cats to use to clean their teeth?
There are some chew toys available for cats, but they won't replace the effectiveness of actual brushing.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram