Just as with humans, cats can develop a variety of dental health problems if their teeth and gums aren’t cared for properly. However,  felines can’t easily clean their own teeth and treat complications. Fortunately, you can protect your four-legged friend’s smile by brushing their teeth regularly and scheduling regular pet dental exams with your animal care provider. To better illustrate why this preventive care counts, here are a few of the most important reasons your cat’s teeth and gums need to stay in good shape.

Why Pet Dental Care Is Important For Cats

Prevent Pain

When plaque and food debris are allowed to build up along your cat’s teeth and gums, they can experience an increased risk for cavities and oral infections. If this damage progresses, sensitive nerves can eventually become irritated, causing extreme pain that can impact your pet’s quality of life.

Support Nutritional Needs

If your cat is experiencing dental pain or tooth damage, it may become difficult for them to chew their food. In some cases, this pain may even cause felines to avoid eating and miss out on the daily nutrients they need to stay healthy. Brushing your cat’s teeth and scheduling regular pet dental exams can help catch and resolve problems early on so they can continue eating comfortably.

Reduce Infection Risk

If oral bacteria have infected your cat’s gum tissue or teeth, they may experience many problems other than discomfort. Specifically, these bacteria can eventually enter the bloodstream, spreading the infection to other parts of the body. Depending on the extent of the situation, this progression could spur costly and life-threatening conditions that affect your cat’s heart, kidneys, and other essential organs.

Detect Oral Cancer

Cats can sometimes develop oral cancer that causes tumors to grow in the tooth socket, gums, or other areas of the mouth. While some growths are benign, others may cause progressive damage that could endanger your pet’s life. Fortunately, if you practice routine teeth cleaning and visit a veterinarian regularly for oral exams, cancer can be detected early.

If you’re concerned about your cat’s oral health, turn to the caring veterinarians at TLC Pet Care Centers. Offering comprehensive animal care services in Cincinnati, OH, this vet clinic is equipped to provide in-depth pet dental exams to pinpoint potential problems affecting your feline’s teeth and gums. This provider also offers dental surgical services to promote healing and minimize pain. Visit this animal hospital online to learn more about their dental services or call (513) 825-4011 to schedule a convenient appointment.