Do cats need their teeth cleaned?

[Twickerhun]

I've just been to my local pets corner to buy dry cat food. They don't stock my usual anymore, so advised me to buy a new brand on the grounds it's good for my cats teeth and it will will save me money as I won't need to pay for their teeth to be cleaned under general anaesthetic.

I find this a slightly ridiculous reason to choose dried cat food but is it as ridiculous as it sounds? Do all cats other than mine go to have their teeth polish and can a different type of dried food save them from needing this?

Ha!

I can just imagine my cats lined up in a neat row baring their little catty gums so the vet can brush their teeth...

it's a bit of a shame if it's not true. One of my cats is called big boy so that when DH takes him to the vet the vet gets to come out and call his name :)

Big boy that's hilarious in the waiting room.

Never brushed my cats teeth had them 10 and 11 years with no issues. They did eat dry and wet food if that helps. ....worried I should have now will see what is said.

Mine have just had their annual jabs and check up. I was told if I can't clean their teeth ( hahaha haha ) ! I should take them in for a clean to prevent problems down the line.

In all seriousness I've had cats for 38 years. My my was a vet. I've never heard of this teeth problem.

*My mum

My cat is about to be booked in for her second operation to have teeth cleaned and probably removed :(. She is 15 and had to have the first op at 13.. so yes, once cats get to about 12/13 I've found that they do start to have problems, so the advice is probably not bad. Not sure what my cat was fed up when younger as I only got her when she was 10.

Gosh figment I'm sorry, poor cat and you

Sparklingcat has a dental under sedation at the vets every 18 months or so. Her teeth get awful.

We have tried stuff in the water, special dried food and toothpaste she licks off her paws but to no avail.

I brush my cat's teeth every other day

I've been wondering this since getting out kitten 2months ago.

I have found some treats that apparently help with dental hygiene but who knows if they actually make a difference. They are similar to dreamies, except they are called Milkies and you can get them on zooplus.

I wouldn't worry about me, just my bank balance! Last time the operation was very successful and my cat was straight home with her face in the food bowl! But obviously if these things could be avoided that would be better!

I've just bought some dental drops you put in their water. I know I must be mad

MCat had a scale and polish a year ago, tartare buildup. I give them Logic cat toothpaste (when I remember) to prevent future buildup. They lick it happily off their paw, and the enzymes in it break down plaque.