How to brush your cat’s teeth: Detailed steps and precautions

Your cat’s oral health is vital, and regular brushing is one of the most effective ways to maintain your cat’s oral health. While many pet owners may find brushing their cats a challenge, with the right steps and patience, the task can be made relatively easy. Next, I will explain in detail how to brush your cat’s teeth, including the preparation, specific steps and precautions.

1. Preparatory work

Before you start brushing your cat’s teeth, preparation is very important. This includes choosing the right tools, creating a relaxing environment, and gradually training the cat to adapt to the brushing process.

1.1 Choose the right tool

Toothbrushes for cats: There are toothbrushes on the market that are specifically designed for cats, usually with softer bristles and smaller brush heads that fit the mouth structure of the cat.

Toothpastes for cats: Choose toothpastes for cats because they have ingredients that suit your cat’s digestive system and usually come in flavors that cats like, such as chicken or beef

Reward treats: Prepare small treats or treats that your cat likes to reward and encourage good behavior during the brushing session.

1.2 Create a relaxing environment

Choose the right time: Make sure to brush when your cat is mentally relaxed, such as after eating or playing.
Quiet space: Choose a quiet, distraction-free space to brush your teeth to avoid stressing or distracting your cat.
Familiar items: Use a towel or blanket your cat is familiar with to make them feel safe and comfortable.

1.3 Stepwise adaptation

Contact training: Gradually acclimate your cat to contact the mouth and toothbrush before formal brushing. First, gently touch your cat’s mouth to get them used to the feeling. Then, gradually dip the toothbrush or finger in the toothpaste and let the cat lick it to adjust to the taste of the toothpaste.
Short training: In the initial training, the time of brushing should not be too long, you can start from a few seconds and gradually increase the time.

2. Detailed procedures

After your cat has gradually become accustomed to the brushing process, you can begin formal brushing. Here are the detailed steps：

2.1 Stationary cat

Choose the right position: Usually sit on the floor or a chair with the cat standing on your lap, which gives you more control over your cat’s body.

Secure your cat’s head: Gently secure your cat’s head with one hand, making sure their mouth is able to open slightly, but don’t force it. If the cat feels unwell, it can be paused and rewarded.

2.2 Squeeze toothpaste out of a tube 

Proper amount of toothpaste: Squeeze a proper amount of cat toothpaste onto your toothbrush to avoid overdoing it。

Acclimating to toothpaste: If your cat is unfamiliar with toothpaste, let them lick a bit of it first to acclimate to the taste。

2.3 Start brushing your teeth

Brush the outside of your cat’s teeth: Gently brush the outside of your cat’s teeth, starting with the gums and moving the brush gently to make sure each tooth is touched.

Brush the inside: If the cat is cooperative, try brushing the inside of the teeth, but don’t force it.
Brush the occlusal surface: Finally, gently brush the occlusal surface of the teeth.

2.4 Finish brushing
Give a reward: Immediately after brushing, give your cat a reward, such as a treat or a compliment, to reinforce good behavior.

Record brushing: record the time and situation of each brush, and gradually increase the frequency and time of brushing.