Maine Coon: oral hygiene

2023 Author: Alex Livingston | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-11-26 11:39

Just like humans, cats also need to maintain good oral hygiene in order to enjoy a happy and healthy life. There are many studies that have shown how important tooth health is to them, and since they can't think for themselves, their humans have to think about it. In this article we will talk about oral hygiene in cats, focusing on the specific case of Maine Coon.

All cats are prone to the accumulation of plaque and tartar on their teeth, and when this problem is not resolved promptly it can cause tooth and gum disease in 8 out of 10 cats. periodontitis It is one of the most common diseases that veterinarians find themselves having to treat in felines, and the best way to prevent it is to brush your teeth regularly and carry out routine checks.

Furthermore, if the Maine Coon's teeth and gums are not properly safeguarded, the cat could develop bad breath, a problem that is certainly less serious but still unpleasant for everyone. Much more serious is the ache caused by infections in untreated teeth and gums, which in the long run can compromise the quality of life of the animal and in the worst cases even shorten it.

Poor oral hygiene affects various aspects of Maine Coon health: periodontitis can seriously damage teeth, roots and gums; as the infection spreads it can also spread in the blood, from which it can reach the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver and pancreas causing serious and irreparable damage.

In many pet accessories stores you can find special toothbrushes for felines. These are instruments with finer bristles than those of our toothbrushes, and the end to be inserted in the mouth should be much smaller. These toothbrushes will also have a different shape to better reflect that of a cat's mouth. Some versions include a tapered end which is very effective in reaching every corner of the Maine Coon's mouth. It is also possible to find toothbrushes that you can simply wear on your finger (like big thimbles). If you don't find any of these items you can use one children's toothbrush, with soft or extra soft bristles. A reserve of cotton swabs or cotton balls, usually used to pass water on the teeth or rub away any excess toothpaste, could also be for you.

Just about the toothpaste It is important to remember that cats cannot use that for humans, because it is harmful to them. However, toothpastes are very popular suitable for felines and they are available in various flavors: cats generally tend to prefer those with a meat or fish flavor; you may want to try different strains until you find the one your Maine Coon likes best.

Brushing a cat's teeth is often considered difficult if not dangerous, but as with many of these activities, the result depends on the way in which the animal is used to the idea and to the very behavior of his human. The Maine Coon should become familiar with this operation from the moment his first teeth appear, and it should be the least unpleasant experience possible for him.

First try to relax or you will risk transmitting your nervousness to the animal, involuntarily telling it that it is something to fear. Avoid using force or blocking his movements unless necessary.

Get the Maine Coon used to having entered objects in the mouth: A simple solution is to swipe a finger in a food that the cat is crazy about and then rub it gently on his teeth. It is important to repeat the operation several times over the course of several weeks: soon the cat will be accustomed to these episodes and indeed will look forward to them. After this first phase, try swiping your finger only in a little water, always reassuring and stroking the cat.

Only later can you make him familiar with toothbrush and toothpaste; do not start immediately with the latter but repeat the steps you followed when you only used your finger. Once he is used to the toothpaste too, you can start brushing very gently. Do not rush: proceeding slowly will help both you and the animal to practice.

Ideally, the teeth should be cleaned every day but this would cause too much stress in the animal, especially if it is not yet used to it. For a Maine Coon they may be fine too 2-3 brushes per week, during which you can take the opportunity to take a look at your cat's mouth and check that there are no dental problems. If not, it is advisable to take him to a veterinarian.