Most of us learned to brush our teeth when we were very young. It now seems a rather simple task, which is a normal part of our daily routine.

However, for an animal, this can be something entirely new and very off-putting.

Most cats and dogs are not keen on having a human’s hands or any other object forcibly placed inside their mouths. So, this is a task that will take time and patience, but done right and done consistently, it can save the animal discomfort and tooth loss later in life.

For the animals that are timid or rough when trying to brush for the first time, it might be wise to approach the situation in a different manner. Don’t try to use a regular toothbrush the first time.

Instead, use only your finger dipped in a tasty liquid – such as tuna water or beef bouillon. Rub the teeth and gums gently, paying close attention to where the two meet, as this is a place where bacteria like to live.

When the finger is more easily accepted, step it up a little by wrapping your finger in gauze. This provides a little friction to better clean the teeth and gums and also allows the animal to get used to something that feels a bit like a regular tooth brush.

Finally, when the animal is ready, introduce a brush designed for animals or an ultra-soft, sensitive human toothbrush. Holding it at a forty-five degree angle, apply a small dab of pet toothpaste (never use human varieties) and follow the same path as you had with your finger.

For more information, keeping reading here.