When an animal has a procedure under GA, does a separate vet monitor the anaesthesia and airway, as in human medicine?
A vet nurse does. Obviously we yell for help if there's any issues.
I am trying to get my cats to tolerate toothbrushing, but it's very difficult. I have been trying to gradually push them to allow me to touch their teeth etc, but progress is slow / non existent so far.Their main diet is wet food but I have been putting crunchies coated in (cat) toothpaste in their bowls after meals. Is this likely to be effective, at all? Or am I kidding myself?
I think that's a good idea. Cats are notoriously difficult... in every way... but especially when it comes to their teeth. Realistically you need them on a good 'flossing' dry food and to get them regular check ups with the vets so you can catch any problems early. I wish there was a magic trick with cats teeth..
Dental decay kitty is only 4 years old but the vet thinks his tooth decay is a form accelerated by calcinivirus (at least, I think that's what they said). Is there any hope for any of his teeth long term? If I could brush them regularly, how much difference would it make? Will dental decay lead to other health problems (like heart disease, as in humans)?
Bad teeth can cause other problems, such as infections spreading to jaws, hearts, kidneys etc and lesions and most commonly anorexia as it's too painful to eat. Like I said regular check ups and cleanings are your best line of defence.
Also, why is one cat affected by calcinivirus in this way but not the other? They must both have it they came from a sheltered and cohabited from kitten hood. I assumed it was down to genetic /immune system factors.
Yes most likely, like humans.
I know another doctor who retrained after training as a vet (!) she didn't like the early morning farm trips / high frequency of on calls. Do you see many / any doctors retrained as vets?
Never met a doctor who became a vet. Like you say, they probably couldn't hack it 