Brushing Your Cat's Teeth: Step-by-Step Instructions

Getting Started

Start slowly, initially concentrating on rubbing or brushing the outside of the upper molars. You don’t have to cover every surface of every tooth every time - go slow and give tons and tons of praise. You can even start by using a little bit of peanut butter before progressing to a veterinary-approved toothpaste. Cats find comfort in routine, so a little planning can go a long way!

1.) Assemble what you’ll need:

Use your finger, a finger “brush,” a small pet toothbrush, or even a used child-sized toothbrush. Go slow at first and pick the tool that your cat likes best.

Never use human toothpaste. These can cause stomach upset. Only use a good-quality pet toothpaste. These come in cat-friendly flavors like peanut butter or poultry and contain enzymes that help break the plaque down before it has a chance to turn into tartar.

2.) Try to brush your cat’s teeth in the same place in your home every time.

3.) Use a “key phrase” to give them a head’s up (e.g. “c’mon Sylvester, it’s time to brush your teeth!”)

4.) Try to catch them in a nice calm, chill mood (not right after playing or exercising)

5.) Make the experience super positive!

Reward them verbally with tons of praise during and after brushing. Also include nonverbal praise by patting their head and scratching behind their ears. And don’t forget to end with a treat!

It’s a good idea to reserve a special treat for after you’ve brushed your cat’s teeth, trimmed their nails, cleaned their ears, etc. If this is the only time they get that special treat, they’ll learn to expect that reward.

Another helpful tip is to use a probiotic/food additive or water additive designed for dental health.. Basically, these products improve the growth of “good” bacteria and prevent the growth of “bad” bacteria that can aid in the formation of dental tartar and disease.

Follow these simple steps and before you know it, brushing your cat’s teeth will become a happy, routine part of their life. And you’ll be confident that tartar, gum disease, and bad breath will be prevented in a fun way.

Read more:

Everything You Need to Know About Your Cat’s Dental Health

Dental and Oral Anatomy in Cats

Tooth Resorption in Cats

Need to speak with a veterinarian regarding brushing your cat's teeth or another condition?

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