Cleaning teeth

[abunaione]

So my cat is 17.
Her teeth have lots of plaque.
I know she's old to be put under, to clean her teeth.
I think it does bother her some.
I think she would feel better if they were cleaned.
Should we do it or not????

 

[Alldara]

If the vet agrees that she's healthy enough for it, I would. Our geriatric cat Nobel went in 2020. Turned out he needed two extractions as he had a broken tooth. We hadn't even known! He was eating fine and no signs of pain.

Anyway, it's been very worth it.

We did a blood panel first to get an idea of risk.

 

[FeebysOwner]

What does your vet say?

Feeby (17+ yo) has some plaque on her teeth, but the vet doesn't seem to think it is enough to warrant putting her under anesthesia. Of course, Feeby has other health issues - most specifically, hyperthyroidism and CKD - so I am sure that plays a role in the vet's thought process. But, as far as I can tell, Feeby doesn't seem to be bothered by it either, so - all in all - I won't risk it for her.

Any chance you could brush her teeth instead? No anesthesia required for that. I totally understand if that is not possible for you - as it is certainly not for me! I have trouble getting a syringe in Feeby's mouth for meds without her gagging!

 

[Alldara]

Oh! We used this for Nobel as he was an alligator in a past life I'm sure. You rub a bit on the teeth every day, it helped get some plaque off before his procedure. Fresh Breath Clean Teeth Oral Care Gel for Cats

 

[abunaione]

Never heard of the gel.
I'll see if I can find it.
Vet says because she so old, not recommended.