Follow this four-week training program to get your cat comfortable with daily brushing.
You will need:
A cat toothbrush
Feline toothpaste (human toothpaste is not safe for cats)
Rewards (either an edible treat or a drink from their favorite water faucet)
Week 1:
Let your cat become familiar with the smell of the toothpaste. Leave the brush and toothpaste out where the cat can inspect them. Every day, put a dab on your finger, and let them smell and lick it. If your cat is shy about tasting it, put a tiny dab near their mouth so they can lick it off. Give a reward when your cat licks the toothpaste so they associate the toothpaste with an enjoyable experience.
Week 2:
Get your cat used to the taste of the toothpaste. Apply a dab of toothpaste to one of their canine teeth every day, followed by a reward.
Week 3:
Get your cat used to the toothbrush. Put a small amount of toothpaste on the brush and let him or her lick it off. If he or she is shy about licking it, apply a dab near the mouth. Follow with a reward.
Week 4:
Gently stretch your cat's lips far enough to insert the brush gently between the lips and gums. Place the bristles at a 45 degree angle to the teeth, aiming for the narrow crevice between teeth and gums. Brush around gently, and work around the upper and lower teeth. It’s only necessary to brush the outside surfaces, as the cat’s own tongue cleans the inside surfaces well.
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Related: We have more information under our cat health categories.