Do you brush your cat's teeth?

Hi all you lovelies,

So Waffles is 5-6 months now and his teeth are growing in, and this was the time our vet suggested we start to introduce brushing his teeth. I've watched some videos and read about how important dental health is for cats. However, I am reluctant (scared) to try. He's very squirmy and I'm just scared of the commitment of trying to force my fingers or a cat tooth brush into his mouth every day for the next 15-20 years. However if I want to make that commitment, I need to start now when he's still a kitten. 

For those that don't brush your cat's teeth, what other alternatives have you found to be really good? Do you use dental treats such as Greenies or do you take them to get a professional dental cleaning done? 

Thanks!!!

My Aby gets his teeth brushed every day My other cat only tolerates tooth brushing every other day. It takes a little time to get a cat used to tooth brushing. Using a yummy toothpaste helps. Many people here like the CET brand of pet toothpaste.

Here's a video of how to brush a cat's teeth: http://partnersah.vet.cornell.edu/pet-owners/cat-teeth

And one by TCS member Angel's Mommy: http://s1255.photobucket.com/user/kelly8-69/media/VID_20150718_224856090_zpscs92np6e.mp4.html

There are threads on tooth brushing and other dental care: http://www.thecatsite.com/newsearch?search=tooth+brushing&type=35

Greenies are too small to do much of anything for dental health. The only treats I recommend are the CET dental chews. The chews are really big so a cat really has to gnaw and chew on it to break it up.

Pet oral rinses and gels are other options.

Water additives are a waste of money, IMO. A cat isn't going to drink enough water daily for the additive to have any effect.

Some people give their cats raw bones and gizzards and hearts for dental health.

A professional cleaning is always an option, if expensive. Have it done by a vet dental specialist rather than a regular vet. Dental specialists have advanced training. February is Pet Dental Health month and many vets have discounts or other offers on dental cleanings.

I don't, but I want to. After going through what I am with Sara now (I'm learning so many lessons from her!) I want to make sure I do a better job on the oral care.

No I tried before and it didn't go well. I wish I could. Next time I adopt a cat I'm going to try harder to get them used to it.