Looking After Your Kitten's Teeth

Cats are very good at hiding discomfort, which makes dental disease one of the most commonly missed health issues in pet cats. Starting good dental habits while your kitten is young is the simplest and most effective way to protect their mouth for life.

Brushing: Still the Gold Standard

Brushing your kitten's teeth is the most effective way to prevent plaque build-up and gum disease. Aim for three to four times a week at minimum, though daily is ideal.

Use a small toothbrush made for cats, or a soft finger brush. Always use toothpaste designed for cats. Human toothpaste contains fluoride and other ingredients that are toxic to cats and should never be used.

How to Brush

• Start by letting your kitten lick a little toothpaste so they become familiar with the taste
• Gently lift their lip and brush in small circles, focusing near the gumline and the back teeth
• Keep sessions short and positive, especially at first
• Finish with plenty of praise, or a small treat they enjoy

Introducing mouth handling early makes brushing much easier long-term. Begin by simply touching your kitten's lips and gums with your finger, then gradually introduce the brush over several days or weeks.

Dental Treats and Toys

Certain treats and toys are designed to help reduce tartar build-up through chewing. They are a helpful complement to brushing, not a substitute for it. Supervise your kitten with any new toy or chew, and choose products specifically designed for cats and appropriately sized for kittens.

Diet and Dental Health

Dry kibble has a mild mechanical scraping effect on teeth that can help slow plaque build-up compared to a wet-only diet. If your kitten eats primarily wet food, dental chews and regular brushing become even more important.

We also stock Hill's t/d Dental Diet, a veterinary-formulated dry food designed to reduce plaque and tartar as your cat chews. Ask our team whether it is suitable for your kitten's current age and size.

Water Additives

Dental rinses added to your kitten's water can help freshen breath and reduce plaque. They are easy to use and a good addition to a regular brushing routine. Follow the product instructions for dosage, and check with us if you are unsure which product to use.

Vet Dental Checks

We examine your kitten's teeth at every health visit. As your cat ages, some tartar build-up may require a professional dental clean under anaesthetic. Catching problems early keeps treatment simple and prevents pain from developing.

Signs to Watch For

Because cats often continue eating despite dental pain, these signs are worth knowing:

• Bad breath
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Drooling or pawing at the mouth
• Difficulty eating, or dropping food from the mouth
• Loose or visibly broken teeth

If you notice any of these, please get in touch and we will arrange a check promptly.

Questions?

Our team is happy to recommend the right toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental chews for your kitten's age and size at any visit. Call us on (03) 9592 9811 or book online.