Over 2yrs and still can’t get her teeth brushed properly

[everyrosehasathorn]

I tried for the first 6 months then gave up. She would cry, wriggle and swipe. A few months ago I started again as the vet said she was starting to show signs of gingivitis:(

How did you get your feisty cat to accept a toothbrush? She loves the toothpaste and I’m using my fingers at the moment. She doesn’t bite that kind goodness just a LOT of fussing and wriggling which results in toothpaste going all over her face. I’ve been bribing her with bits of tuna after the ordeal

I've never, ever brushed a cat's teeth (and I've had them for most of my life).

I value my fingers, you see.

I'm 45 and have lived woth over 20 cats in my life .. I have never brushed a cats teeth .. it's really not necessary .. get them some cat treats to break down tarter if you are worried . Makes me wonder who told you to brush her teeth ??

Her vet told me I should be brushing her teeth as she was starting to get gingivitis.

Cats aren't ever going to willingly let you brush their teeth!!
I'd get some of the toothpaste with enzymes in it that tastes like meat.

Like other posters, I have never in my life tried to clean a cat's teeth. I value my fingers and would like to keep them.

My cat is also showing signs of gingivitis, but my vet (being a sane person who has met several cats) suggested treats to help treat it, and then later she will need some dental work. She did not suggest cleaning them, and even said it was a shame that cats weren't up for that.

Haha haha. The vet must have been having a laugh. Just give them crunchy food and dental treats.

@Blueuggboots yes I do have one of those toothpastes and she loves it! I have watched so many videos where the cats are just calmly sitting getting their teeth cleaned. Obviously to fool you into thinking it’s easy.

Toothpastes like Logic Oral Hygiene Gel can be useful even if you can’t manage the brushing aspect. If she finds it palatable enough (my dogs absolutely love it, they line up to have their teeth brushed before bed) and will lick it off your finger then it’ll still have some positive effect. Popping a bit on her paw for her to lick off is another option.

Cross posted with you there! If she’s happy to take it then I wouldn’t get too hung up on the brushing aspect. If you do want to get there eventually then a softly, softly approach is the best.

This site is dog-centric but the information can easily be adapted for cats or other animals.

Thank you for the link @suttercane

I have toothpaste in a special tube for Cheddar. She's pretty good about it. But absolutely hates the taste. So I don't use the heart to inflict it on her.