Gentle Dental

Their mouths stink.

FIV+ cats are more susceptible to gingivitis, so we have implemented regular (we try for once a week.) toothbrushing for Bits and The Bot. Bilton will start to get his teeth cleaned as well, but we want to get a cat bag so that we can restrain him properly. He's huge and strong and his claws are like needles. It's terrifying. We also apply some medicine to their gums that is supposed to keep gingivitis away.

Saturday night Bits got the treatment and last night it was The Bot's turn. I thought of taping it for your enjoyment, but decided against it - maybe next time.

Our Tools:

Toothbrush

Toothpaste

Cotton swab

Gum Meds

How we do it:

1. Brad wraps cat in towel, creating a "cat burrito".
2. Brad struggles to keep all cats limbs inside burrito.
3. I pry open mouth and try to keep it open with one hand.
4. I work to get toothbrush inside of mouth with other hand.
5. I attempt to make actual bristle-tooth contact (approx. 2 min.)
6. Medicine soaked cotton swab is placed in mouth.
7. I attempt to make actual swab-gum contact (approx. 1 min.)
8. The cat is released and given a Feline Greenie for his troubles.