As a passionate cat parent, you probably realize that your furry friend deserves the best possible care.
You gift them treats, warm beds and hundreds of belly rubs (when they’re in the mood, of course). And yet, there’s one aspect of feline health often goes forgotten: teeth.
Yes, those little pet’s teeth that chew up kibble and the occasional houseplant have to be given as much love as the rest of that cute feline’s body.
Why Cat Dental Cleaning is Important?
To understand why dental cleaning is important, let’s review some facts about cat’s dental health.
Firstly, cats of all ages can suffer from dental diseases.
Indeed, more than 80% of cats older than three years have some type of dental problem.
Without treatment, this causes all kinds of complications. From pain in the mouth and bleeding gums to more extensive health complications such as kidney, liver, and heart damage.
A very common and known form of dental disease in cats is periodontal disease. It is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. As the disease progresses, the gums can become inflamed and start to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that trap bacteria and food particles. If not addressed, periodontal disease can result in tooth loss and other severe health complications.
It is very important to provide proper dental care for your cats’ teeth to prevent any dental disease.
These include regular dental cleanings, brushing your cat’s teeth, and feeding a nutritious diet appropriate to your cat’s age and type. By doing so, you can make sure your cat keeps a healthy mouth and is well-nourished.
What to Expect from a Low-Cost Dental Cleaning?
Due to the above-listed facts, we recommend regular dental cleanings to prevent the development of any dental disease.
When it comes to choosing a full-service veterinary clinic, there are many good ones. Most of them offer low-cost dental cleanings to provide routine preventative dental care.
Here is what to expect:
After the dental appointment is scheduled, there will be a dental exam to determine if anything is wrong and the dental cleaning will be estimated at cost.
The vets will examine your cat’s teeth and gums to find out more about the treatment.
Dental cleanings happen under general anesthesia, so your cat is comfortable and safe.
Some clinics also offer tooth extractions and other dental services at regular intervals.
Usually, dental cleanings include scaling and polishing to remove tartar and plaque from the gum line.
Affordable Professional Dental Cleaning Options
You don’t want to pay too much to have your cat’s teeth cleaned. There are many ways to get professional and affordable cat dental care. Here are some options to consider:
Low-Cost Veterinary Clinics:
Most cities and big communities have vet clinics offering discounted dental care. They provide routine services such as cleanings and extractions, making dentistry more affordable.
Non-Profit Organizations:
Organizations like the RSPCA in the UK provide low-cost vet care. This includes cat dental treatments for those who are struggling. You might be eligible, but you should check with your local branch.
Veterinary Schools:
Some veterinary schools provide dental care services at lower costs. Students perform procedures under professional supervision, making this a cheap alternative without compromising on quality.
Preventing Periodontal Disease through Regular Care
“Prevention is better than cure.”
As we’ve mentioned, cats can suffer from periodontal disease, too.
It is is a treatable cat dental disease, however, it could be fatal if untreated. So, if you are still wondering if you are supposed to brush your cat’s teeth, the short answer is: yes.
By implementing a routine dental care, you can make sure that your pet’s mouth doesn’t experience the annoyance that comes with tooth decay. Brushing and feeding your cat the right kind of food are all important to preventing periodontal disease and maintaining their overall health.
Here is what you need to do:
Be sure to brush your cat’s teeth frequently to remove plaque and tartar, and avoid tooth decay.
Provide a balanced diet that is healthy for your cat’s teeth and body.
Schedule regular pet’s dental check-ups and dental cleanings (if needed) with your veterinarian to prevent periodontal disease and oral pain.
You veterinarian will be able to provide guidance on how to care for your pet’s teeth.
Scheduling a Dental Cleaning
Scheduling a dental cleaning for your cat is the first step in maintaining their oral health.
Find a full-service veterinary clinic near you. We have made a list of the clinics/centers with low-cost dental cleaning services.
The services usually include a thorough dental exam, dental radiographs, and tooth extractions if necessary.
Contact the clinic before you book. If needed, provide them with medical history and vaccination records regarding your pet. Then they will then schedule an appointment for a dental exam, which will include a thorough examination of your cat’s teeth and gums to identify any signs of dental disease.
Here is what usually happens during the dental exam:
The vet will take dental radiographs of the gum line and teeth below the gum line.
This will help to identify any signs of dental disease, such as diseased teeth or inflamed gums.
Then, they should give you a written price quote for a cleaning and any additional treatment needed if your pet needs one.
Communities even provide financial assistance for veterinary care.
Most clinics provide general anesthesia so your pet isn’t put through any pain during the dental cleaning.
After the procedure is done, the veterinarians will work with you to develop a dental care plan that is tailored to your cat’s specific needs.
Don’t wait till the last minute – get your cat’s teeth cleaned today and staunch the roots of dental disease.
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