Cat Teeth Cleaning In las vegas: Why Dental Care is Essential for Your Feline Friend

When it comes to keeping your cat healthy, you probably think of quality food, regular vet visits, and plenty of playtime. But there's one area of feline health that often gets overlooked—cat teeth cleaning. Just like us, cats can suffer from a range of dental issues that impact their comfort, behavior, and even their internal organs.

In this post, we’ll explore why cat dental care is so important, the common dental problems cats face, and how you can effectively support your cat’s oral health—starting today.

Take advantage of our Fall dental promotion at Las Vegas Cat Hospital. $375 for Dental Cleaning with full mouth radiographs.

Why Dental Care is Crucial for Cats

Dental health plays a major role in your cat’s overall well-being. Without proper oral hygiene, plaque and tartar accumulate on the teeth, leading to gum disease, tooth decay, and infections. Over time, untreated dental issues can affect your cat’s ability to eat comfortably and even reduce their quality of life.

Worse, bacteria from infected teeth and gums can spread through the bloodstream, impacting vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. Studies have linked poor oral hygiene in cats to increased risk of systemic health problems—making cat teeth cleaning a truly essential part of your feline’s care.

Common Dental Problems in Cats

Cats are masters at hiding pain, which means dental problems often go unnoticed. Here are some of the most common oral health issues:

1. Periodontal Disease

This is the most prevalent dental issue in cats. It starts with plaque buildup and leads to gingivitis and, eventually, periodontitis—a more severe infection that damages the tooth root and surrounding tissue.

Signs to watch for: bad breath, red gums, drooling, and reluctance to eat.

2. Tooth Resorption

A painful condition where the body breaks down and absorbs the tooth. The cause isn’t fully understood, but it’s alarmingly common and very uncomfortable for cats.

Signs to watch for: drooling, refusal to eat, pawing at the mouth, and facial swelling.

3. Stomatitis

This severe inflammation of the mouth’s soft tissues is often linked to an immune response to plaque. It can make eating painful and may require aggressive treatment.

4. Fractured or Broken Teeth

Chewing on hard objects or injuries can cause broken teeth. These not only hurt but also open the door for infections.

5. Halitosis (Bad Breath)

While it’s easy to dismiss bad breath, it’s often a red flag for deeper dental issues. Persistent foul odor usually means it’s time for a vet visit.

Dr Love performs a cat teeth cleaning and extractions during a procedure on a cat at Las Vegas Cat Hospital. Vet Assistant, Cristina monitors anesthesia next to the patient

Signs Your Cat May Have Dental Problems

Your cat can’t tell you when something hurts, so it’s important to pay attention to subtle signs like:

• Bad breath

• Drooling or excessive salivation

• Difficulty eating or chewing

• Pawing at the mouth or face

• Red, bleeding, or swollen gums

• Weight loss or appetite changes

• Behavior changes like irritability or withdrawal

• Facial swelling

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a cat teeth cleaning dental exam as soon as possible.

How to Take Care of Your Cat’s Teeth

Preventing dental disease starts at home. Here are a few ways to keep your cat’s teeth and gums healthy:

1. Brush Their Teeth

Yes, you can brush your cat’s teeth! Daily brushing is ideal, but even a few times a week helps. Use cat-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste) and a feline toothbrush or finger cot.

2. Use Dental Treats and Chews

Look for VOHC-approved dental treats that help remove plaque while your cat chews. These can be a tasty and effective supplement to brushing.

3. Consider a Dental Diet

Certain cat foods are designed to support oral health. They may have larger kibble, special textures, or additives to help reduce plaque and tartar.

4. Schedule Regular Vet Checkups

Routine checkups allow your vet to spot early signs of dental disease. They may recommend professional cat teeth cleaning under anesthesia for a deeper clean, especially below the gum line.

5. Avoid Hard or Unsafe Chew Toys

Steer clear of bones, antlers, or hard plastic toys that could chip or break your cat’s teeth. Stick with veterinary-recommended dental toys instead.

The Importance of Professional Cat Teeth Cleaning

Even the best home care can’t replace the need for professional cleanings. A veterinary dental cleaning involves scaling and polishing the teeth under anesthesia to remove plaque and tartar that brushing can’t reach—especially below the gum line.

This also gives your vet the chance to:

• Perform intraoral x-rays to detect hidden issues, just like you get at your dentist

• Examine the full mouth for signs of decay, resorption, or tumors

• Recommend extractions or further treatment if necessary

At Las Vegas Cat Hospital, professional cleanings are recommended based on your specific cat's needs. This is why scheduling annual examinations to have Dr. Love check out your cat are so important.

Final Thoughts on Cat Dental Health

Cat teeth cleaning is more than a cosmetic concern—it’s a vital part of your pet’s health. With a combination of at-home care and professional dental visits, you can help your cat avoid painful dental disease and enjoy a healthier, happier life.

If you’ve noticed signs of dental trouble or your cat has never had a dental exam, now is the time. Schedule a consultation and let’s work together to keep your cat’s smile healthy and pain-free.

Want to learn more or book a dental exam? Contact our team today—because your cat’s health starts with their teeth.