Cat Dental Cleaning Procedure

Tommy, a 7 year old black and white domestic shorthair, was a star patient during his recent dental procedure. At a recent check-up, Dr. Anders noticed severe plaque and tartar on Tommy’s teeth, along with painful oral ulcerations on his gums. She recommended a professional cleaning to remove the accumulation of tartar and plaque. While Tommy was under anesthesia, several cavity lesions were detected and the diseased teeth were extracted. At his follow up exam, Tommy’s owner noted that he has had much more energy, personality, and a stronger appetite since his procedure. What she had perceived to be old age causing him to hide and sleep was most likely oral pain causing him to withdraw. Tommy quickly recovered from his procedure and was soon back to harrassing his dog brother and hunting for his beloved Q-tips, one of his favorite ‘toys’. With a mouth full of healthy teeth, Tommy is more content than ever to allow his kitty sister Cocoa to groom him and sit on whatever his mom is reading.

A Health Tip from Tommy
By the age of 3, 80% of cats and dogs have gum disease. We recommend a professional dental cleaning once a year to remove plaque build-up, prevent gum disease, and improve overall health. In addition to veterinary dentistry, there are important steps you can take to maintain your pet’s oral health

• Brushing daily with a special animal toothpaste and toothbrush can make a huge difference in your pet’s tooth and gum health. 

• Rinsing with an oral hygiene pet product targets microorganisms for those pets who cannot tolerate brushing.

• Chews such as C.E.T Oral Hygiene Chews have an abrasive texture that reduces plaque and loosens tartar as your pet chews on them. 
• Food such as Royal Canin Dental Diet improves oral health as your pet eats. 

All of these products are available at Pearl Animal Hospital. Our team values dental care and we are more than happy to speak with you about your pet’s needs or schedule a toothbrushing demonstration. As Tommy revealed, a healthy mouth leads to a happier and more mischievous life!
photo: linnea osterberg