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Quick answer: brushing with a small toothbrush and toothpaste made for cats is the most effective measure. Start gradually with sessions of a few seconds and back it up with oral care foods or dental treats. Strong bad breath, red gums, drooling or difficulty eating are reasons to see your vet.
Many adult cats have some degree of dental problem, and they hide it very well: they keep eating even when it hurts. That is why it is worth checking their mouth now and then and building a hygiene routine from a young age.
Signs that something is wrong
- Persistent bad breath.
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums.
- Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth.
- Drooling, chewing on one side or dropping food.
- Rubbing its face or refusing dry food.
How to get your cat used to tooth brushing
- Days 1–3: gently touch its lips and cheeks while stroking it. Give a reward.
- Days 4–7: let it lick a little cat toothpaste off your finger.
- Week 2: run your finger with toothpaste along the outer surface of the teeth for a few seconds.
- Week 3: use a finger brush or a very small toothbrush, with circular movements on the outer surface of the teeth and molars.
- Routine: aim to brush several times a week; short, positive sessions are better than long, forced ones.
Important: never use human toothpaste; use products formulated for cats.
Extra help
- Oral care foods: some recipes are designed to support oral hygiene.
- Dental treats: useful as a reward, but not a replacement for brushing.
- Vet check-up: at least once a year; if tartar has built up, your vet will assess whether a professional clean is needed.
Dental care products for cats
Check each product page for the intended use. Browse more cat treats.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I brush my cat's teeth?
Ideally every day or several times a week. Consistency matters more than duration.
Does dry food clean teeth?
Some dry foods are designed to help, but most kibble does not replace brushing or a vet check-up.
What if my cat won't let me?
Go back to the previous step and progress more slowly. If it is still impossible, talk to your vet about alternatives.
For information only. If your cat shows pain, bleeding or difficulty eating, talk to your vet.