Comprehensive Guide to Kitten Dental Care: From Teething to Prevention
Features Editor: Ravi Teja Mandapaka
Embarking on caring for a new kitten involves more than just the basics. While essentials like food, water, and shelter are crucial, it's equally important to prioritize aspects like routine health visits, vaccinations, and dental care. Often overlooked, feline dental health is pivotal to a cat's well-being. This article delves into essential aspects of kitten dental care, covering the development of kitten teeth, common dental issues, and practical tips for at-home dental care.
Understanding Kitten Teeth and Teething:
Like humans, cats go through two sets of teeth in their lifetime—kitten (primary) and adult (permanent). The eruption of kitten teeth begins around three weeks, with all 26 primary teeth visible by four months. Adult teeth, totalling 30, should be fully erupted by six to seven months. Around 11 to 12 weeks, the teething process may cause drooling, chewing urges, and slight irritability.
Tip: Redirect your kitten's chewing to approved chew toys during the teething phase to prevent damage to their teeth.
Dealing with Retained Deciduous Teeth:
Around six to seven months, adult teeth should replace kitten teeth. However, retained deciduous teeth pose a risk when the latter fails to fall out. If left untreated, this disease can lead to dental problems, including periodontal conditions. Surgical extraction is necessary to prevent complications and ensure proper development of adult teeth.
Home Dental Care and Prevention:
Toothpaste and Brushing:
Initiate tooth brushing early to acclimate your kitten. Use cat-approved toothbrushes and paste, avoiding human toothpaste. Flavoured options like chicken or tuna make the experience more enjoyable. Aim for brushing at least thrice a week.
Dental Wipes, Rinses, and Pads:
Dental wipes, rinses, or pads offer an alternative for kittens resistant to brushing. While they may not remove food particles from gum sockets, they effectively wipe off plaque deposits. Daily use is recommended.
Dental Treats:
While not a substitute for brushing, dental treats can aid in reducing plaque and tartar. Choose reputable options like Greenies and adhere to recommended feeding amounts to avoid weight gain.
Establishing a regular dental care routine early on helps prevent periodontal disease in adulthood, potentially reducing the need for frequent professional cleanings.
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About Author
Ravi Teja Mandapaka is a multifaceted scholar, poet, and passionate advocate for animals. From English literature to agricultural sciences, from field hockey to music and the arts, Ravi's diverse interests converge in his unwavering commitment to animal welfare. He believes in a journey where compassion meets creativity, and academia blends with advocacy.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravimandapaka/
@RaviTMandapaka [aka Twitter]
