Cat Dental Care from Our Veterinarian Near You in Broomfield, CO

Cats are good at cleaning their own fur, but they often need some help with their teeth. The majority of felines experience dental problems, especially after reaching five years of age. This is also a common issue for purebred cats. Fortunately, our veterinarian at Rock Creek Veterinary Hospital, in Broomfield, CO, can help protect the health of your cat’s teeth.

Why Teeth Cleaning is Crucial

Plaque may accumulate on a cat's teeth, gradually turning into tartar. This eventually harms the gums as gingivitis develops. Sadly, gingivitis can lead to diabetes, kidney disease, and other medical problems. Your cat may also suffer from malnutrition as it becomes more difficult to eat.

Dental problems could lead to tooth loss or necessitate extraction. Rather than developing cavities, felines have resorptive lesions that involve a breakdown of the tooth structure. An X-ray can help determine if any teeth need to be extracted. Another potential issue is a condition known as stomatitis. It results in significant pain and may necessitate multiple tooth extractions.

Preventing Pet Dental Problems

The good news is that there are ways to protect your cat's oral health and avoid these issues. One effective method is to brush the teeth using a special cat-friendly toothpaste. Never use a toothpaste intended for humans; this can be very harmful. It's safer to have a veterinarian examine your cat's teeth before you attempt brushing.

The texture of your cat's food is also important. Consider purchasing foods that have earned the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal of approval. These products may have "dental care" or "oral care" in their names. Certain treats are also designed to promote dental health.

At a minimum, be sure to have a veterinarian near you examine your cat's teeth every 12 months. If your cat shows signs of dental problems, schedule an appointment sooner. Examples of these symptoms include discolored teeth, strong breath odors, drooling, lack of appetite, broken teeth, bleeding, irritability, unusual chewing, or swelling.

Visit Our Veterinarian Near You in Broomfield, CO

Rock Creek Veterinary Hospital is a great choice when you're looking for a dependable veterinarian in Broomfield, CO. We offer pet teeth cleaning, X-ray, and extraction services. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will work to maximize your cat's dental health and comfort. Please call 720-669-4200 to set up an appointment today.