Hygiene Regarding Cats - Dental, Ear and Eye

 
Dental Hygiene
Just like their human companions, cats can build up tartar and be a victim of cavities and periodontal disease, especially if they indulge in "people food."

A yearly trip to the vet to have their teeth cleaned, and bad ones restored or extracted, would not be amiss. Getting and keeping their gums and teeth in a healthy state will prolong the happy life of your pet. Often, your veterinarian will send a recall card to your pet, similar to the one you get when you are due for a dental cleaning.

Your veterinarian may give you a pet toothbrush - either a small ring with tiny soft bristles (not unlike the toothbrush/teething ring that a baby would have) or possibly a double headed toothbrush to brush upper and lower teeth at the same time. Turkey, beef or chicken flavored toothpaste may be recommended as well. Do not use the commercial toothpaste that you yourself use, as this is not good for your pet.

It is best to train your pet to allow you to brush their teeth while they are small kittens. If you acquired your cat as an adult, they may fight you over the toothbrushing, however they are trainable.

Continued attempts to brush their teeth, followed by a snack, may make them more receptive of the toothbrushing routine.

Ear Health and Hygiene
Keeping your cat's ears clean and free of ear mites will be much appreciated by your pet. Ear mites can be annoying for both you and your pet. Symptoms of ear mites include a black, waxy substance in the ears and your cat holding its head at odd angles as well as scratching the infected ear.

Use a damp cloth and gently clean the outside of the ear canal only - NEVER place an object into the ear canal as this can result in deafness.

Eye Health
Persians will typically have weeping eyes and a clean, damp cloth can be used to wipe away the matter.

One of the common eye concerns in cats is conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the membrane lining the inner surface of the eyelid as well as the front part of the eyeball. Causes can be injury, irritants, disease or something in their eye.
Washing the eye with warm water can provide some relief for your pet. Prescription eye drops may be needed - consult with your veterinarian.

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