Cat teeth

kittylova

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hello
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I wanted to ask about cat teeth. Do I have to brush my cats teeth or
can i use these treats?Pit'r PatÂ[emoji]174[/emoji] Breath Fresheners for Cats
$1.99

Product Information:
Mini fish-shaped breath freshening "mints" freshen cat's breath and please even the most finicky of felines
 

hell603

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sounds like they are the equivalent of "Breath Mints" for humans and I don't think they are ment to Clean teeth. There are other treats on the market that are specifically made for cleaning teeth - might want to check into them instead.
 

jen

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I always wonder about those though because hard treats that are meant to clean teeth are just like dry cat food. It is basically a myth that dry food cleans teeth because the cats usually shatter the piece with their fangs and then swallow the rest. Therefore it doesn't really have the chance to clean anything. Wouldn't treats be the same? Unless your cat sits there and carefully chews each piece before swallowing it
 

sar

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Feline breath freshening treats are not a good idea. If your cat's breath smells abnormally, then it's time to check their teeth ang gums. (gingivitis and peridontal disease causes a pungent smell in the cat's mouth)

I personally don't feel that these Dental Treats really have any benefits. I used them for years with Tibby and he quite recently had to have a dental cleaning and two extractions.

I brush my cats' teeth daily with an enzymatic toothpaste (Logic) and it has really made all the difference as the plaque build up has been kept at bay!
 

les0304

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The general rule is: Treats/chews are good; Rinsing is better; Brushing is best.

Brushing is the absolute best home care that you can provide. Some of the treats help alter the pH which is supposed to decrease the incidence of plaque buildup. Some treats (like t/d) are made as a larger kibble to help "brush" the pets teeth. Some cats have to really chew it quite a bit, but I have also seen cats take 1 bite and swallow the rest.
 

sar

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Originally Posted by Les0304

Some treats (like t/d) are made as a larger kibble to help "brush" the pets teeth. Some cats have to really chew it quite a bit, but I have also seen cats take 1 bite and swallow the rest.
My Tibby just swallows the things whole!
 

les0304

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Originally Posted by Sar

My Tibby just swallows the things whole!
Yeah, unfortunately, they can't read the directions! At least they enjoy the treat, even if the whold purpose was defeated!

One of our clinic cats loves (and actually chews) the feline greenies.
 
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kittylova

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I cant brush my cats teeth!!!
They wont open there mouths unless
meow,eat,drink,exc... thats all.I give birdie her hair ball stuff,but she wont
lick it off!! I have to foress it in her mouth!!!
 

les0304

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You don't even have to open their mouth. The only areas that you need to brush are the outside surfaces.
 

sar

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Brushing does take quite a bit of practice on both human and kitty part! I have managed to get my two three year olds used to it!

With the Logic toothpaste, you can smear it onto their paws and let them lick it off! It isn't quite as effective as brushing, but the enzymes will be able to stick to the teeth and gums!
 
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kittylova

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Oh... Ok!!. I thought you had to brush your cats teeth like we humans do.
 

sar

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I ,and many other members, do! It really is the most effective way to keep plaque at bay!

I just use baby tooth brushes and the Logic toothpaste! Although it can take a while to get your cat used to it, they will and it will become part of your daily routine together!
 
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