Kitten Dental Care Guide

Dental disease is one of the most common health problems we see in adult cats - and it often begins in the first year of life. Starting a dental care routine with your kitten gives you the best chance of preventing serious disease later on.

Kittens have 26 baby teeth which are replaced by 30 permanent adult teeth by around six months of age. The adult teeth should be clean and white. Any discolouration, unusual odour, or difficulty eating warrants a dental check.

Daily toothbrushing is the single most effective dental care measure for cats. Start by simply handling your kitten's mouth gently every day - lift the lips, touch the teeth and gums. Gradually introduce a finger brush with pet-safe toothpaste (never use human toothpaste, which contains fluoride and is toxic to cats). Work up to brushing all teeth surfaces over several weeks. Kittens who are comfortable with this routine from an early age are much more accepting as adults.

Dental chews and VOHC-approved treats can support dental health as a secondary measure, but they do not replace brushing.

We recommend a dental check as part of every health visit and will monitor your kitten's tooth development and gum health as they grow. If dental disease develops, we have the equipment and expertise to treat it effectively - including Dr Pey Hor's ANZCVS Membership in Veterinary Dentistry.

Call us on (03) 9592 9811 or book online at middlebrightonvet.com.au/book-online.