How to Brush Your Cat's Teeth: 5 Steps to Keep Their Mouth Fresh
Many cat owners believe their feline companions won’t tolerate having their teeth brushed — but with the right tools, such as a cat dental wash, a chewbrush for cats, or a soft cleaning brush for cats, keeping your pet’s mouth clean and healthy can be simple and stress-free. In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean your cat’s teeth and choose the best dental care products.
Why Cat Teeth Cleaning Is So Important
After meals, food residue and bacteria quickly form plaque on a cat’s teeth. Without daily cat brushing teeth routines, this plaque hardens into tartar, which can lead to gum inflammation, bad breath, and even periodontal disease. In severe cases, your cat may experience bleeding gums, difficulty chewing, and appetite loss. That’s why cat teeth cleaning is essential for every pet parent.
Essential Tools for Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth
To properly care for your cat’s dental hygiene, prepare the following items:
Cat Toothbrushes / Chewbrush for Cats / Cat Toothpaste
Dual-headed or mini-sized cat toothbrushes are great for gently cleaning your cat’s teeth — just choose one that suits their size and temperament. Always pair toothbrushes with cat-safe toothpaste, as human toothpaste can be harmful to pets. Cat toothpaste is usually flavored (like chicken or seafood) to make brushing easier and more enjoyable. Replace brushes regularly to maintain hygiene.
If your cat doesn’t tolerate traditional brushing, try a chewbrush for cats. These vet-approved toys, often made from natural rubber, can be stuffed with treats to encourage chewing while helping remove plaque naturally.
Cat Dental Wash
A cat dental wash is a simple, effective option. Just add a small amount to your cat’s drinking water to help reduce bacteria, tartar buildup, and bad breath. Replenish it daily with fresh water and dental wash to maintain effectiveness.
Tasty Rewards to Reduce Resistance
Reward your cat after each brushing session with treats. You can also introduce dental treats with unique shapes and textures that help scrape away plaque and tartar during chewing. These treats are both nutritious and functional — just remember to adjust your cat’s main meal portions accordingly.
How to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth in 5 Easy Steps
1. Start with Treats and a Calm Environment
Begin in a quiet, comfortable space where your cat feels relaxed — on the couch, your lap, or the floor. Offer a small treat to create a positive association.
2. Gently Stroke Their Cheeks to Relax Them
Gently hold your cat’s mouth and nose area for a few seconds, then release. Praise your cat with a soft voice and repeat this motion so they get used to it.
3. Lift the Lips and Brush in Small Circles
Lift your cat’s lip slightly and, if they remain calm, add a dab of cat-safe toothpaste to the brush. Use gentle, circular motions to clean a few teeth at a time.
4. Focus Along the Gumline
As your cat becomes more comfortable, slowly increase brushing time. Focus along the gumline and work your way toward the back teeth and lower jaw.
5. Brush All Teeth Gradually
With practice and patience, you’ll be able to clean all of your cat’s teeth. End each session with cuddles and praise to reinforce good behavior.
Explore Vetopia’s Range of Cat Dental Care Products
Proper brushing technique is important — but choosing the right products makes all the difference. At Vetopia, we offer a curated selection of cat teeth cleaning essentials, from cat dental washes to dental treats and cleaning brushes for cats. Keep your cat’s mouth fresh, healthy, and pain-free — shop online and have everything delivered straight to your door.
