Cat Dental Care Advice: How Often to Clean Teeth

Veterinarian cleaning an indoor cat’s teeth during a dental checkup

If you’re a cat owner, you probably already know how much our feline friends love to hide things—especially when it comes to pain or discomfort. But did you know that dental issues are among the most common health problems in cats? Even if your kitty lives strictly indoors, their teeth need regular care and attention.

So, let’s answer one of the most common questions cat owners ask: how often should indoor cats get a dental cleaning?
The short answer: usually once a year.
But there’s a lot more to it than that. Let’s explore why dental care is so important, how to spot early signs of problems, and how to keep your cat’s teeth healthy between vet visits.

🦷 Why Cat Dental Care Matters More Than You Think

Dental care isn’t just about fresh breath—it’s about your cat’s overall health and comfort. Cats use their mouths for eating, grooming, and even expressing affection, so when something goes wrong, it affects nearly every part of their life.

According to veterinarians, over 70% of cats show some form of dental disease by the age of three. That’s a staggering number, considering how preventable most dental issues are with routine care.

When plaque and tartar build up on your cat’s teeth, bacteria can invade the gums and lead to periodontal disease, a painful condition that causes inflammation, tooth loss, and even internal infections. Over time, those bacteria can enter the bloodstream and damage the kidneys, liver, or heart.

In other words—keeping your cat’s teeth clean could literally help them live longer.

🐾 So, How Often Should Indoor Cats Get a Dental Cleaning?

For most indoor cats, a professional dental cleaning once per year is the gold standard. This recommendation comes from most veterinarians and feline health experts, and it’s based on both prevention and practicality.

However, there are a few factors that can shift that timeline:

🐱 1. Age

Kittens and Young Cats (Under 3 Years Old):
Young cats may not need a full dental cleaning every year, but their teeth should still be checked annually. Some cats build plaque faster than others, especially if they eat mostly wet food.
Adult Cats (3–7 Years Old):
Once your cat reaches adulthood, yearly cleanings are highly recommended. This is when tartar buildup and gum inflammation tend to begin.
Senior Cats (8+ Years Old):
Older cats often need cleanings every 6–12 months. Their immune systems are weaker, and they’re more prone to dental resorption (a painful condition where the tooth breaks down from within).

👉 For more on keeping older felines healthy, see:
Senior Cat Health Issues: Overview and Care Tips

🍗 2. Diet and Lifestyle

Diet plays a huge role in your cat’s dental health. Cats who eat dry kibble may have slightly less plaque buildup than those who eat soft, canned food—but dry food alone won’t keep teeth clean.

Indoor cats also tend to have fewer opportunities to chew on rough textures that scrape plaque off naturally (like bones or prey). That means you’ll need to be a little more proactive about scheduling cleanings and at-home care.

If your cat enjoys dental treats or uses cat-safe chew toys, that can help extend the time between cleanings—but only if combined with regular vet checks.

🧬 3. Genetics and Individual Differences

Just like people, some cats are simply more prone to dental problems than others. Certain breeds—like Siamese, Abyssinian, and Persian cats—tend to have more dental and gum issues due to their facial structure and genetics.

Your vet might suggest more frequent cleanings if your cat belongs to a high-risk breed or has a history of dental problems.

🔍 What Happens During a Cat Dental Cleaning?

Many cat parents feel nervous about dental cleanings because they involve anesthesia. But rest assured—modern veterinary dental procedures are safe, controlled, and incredibly effective.

Here’s what typically happens:

Pre-exam and bloodwork to make sure your cat is healthy enough for anesthesia.
Scaling and polishing under anesthesia to remove plaque and tartar from all tooth surfaces (even below the gum line).
Full-mouth dental X-rays to check for hidden issues like resorption or abscesses.
Extractions or treatment if damaged teeth are found.
Post-procedure care with pain relief and home instructions.

It’s a thorough process, and once your cat recovers, you’ll likely notice fresher breath and improved appetite right away.

🚨 Signs Your Cat Might Need a Dental Cleaning Sooner

Even if it hasn’t been a full year since their last dental cleaning, there are some telltale signs your cat’s mouth needs attention:

Persistent bad breath
Yellow or brown tartar buildup along the gum line
Drooling or pawing at the mouth
Bleeding or red gums
Trouble eating, chewing on one side, or dropping food
Irritability or hiding behavior

Cats are stoic creatures. By the time they show these signs, the issue could already be serious—so don’t wait. Book a vet appointment as soon as possible.

For a broader look at annual checkups beyond dental health, check out:
👉 Cat Yearly Health Check Guide for Cat Owners

🏠 Common Misconceptions About Indoor Cat Dental Care

A lot of cat owners assume that because their cats live indoors, they’re automatically safer from dental disease. Unfortunately, that’s a myth.

Indoor cats are less likely to have accidents or infections from the outside world—but dental plaque doesn’t care where your cat lives. In fact, indoor cats might be more prone to buildup because they eat softer, processed food and exercise their jaws less often.

Here are a few myths worth busting:

Myth 1: Dry food cleans teeth.
→ It can help slightly, but it doesn’t replace brushing or vet cleanings.
Myth 2: My cat would stop eating if their teeth hurt.
→ Not always. Many cats keep eating despite pain, masking the problem.
Myth 3: Dental disease is normal for older cats.
→ It’s common, yes—but not normal or healthy. It’s treatable and preventable.

🪥 How to Maintain Your Cat’s Dental Health at Home

While professional cleanings are crucial, your cat’s oral health really depends on what you do between vet visits. Here’s how to make dental care part of your cat’s routine:

Brush your cat’s teeth regularly
Use a soft-bristled cat toothbrush and cat-safe toothpaste (never use human toothpaste—it’s toxic to cats). Start slow, and reward them after each session.
Use dental treats or chews
Products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) can help reduce plaque.
Add dental water additives
These can help fight bacteria in the mouth and freshen breath.
Feed a balanced diet
Ask your vet about dental-specific diets or dry food with tartar-control properties.
Schedule regular checkups
Even if your cat seems fine, a vet can catch early signs of dental disease before it becomes painful or expensive.

🧘‍♀️ Stress and Oral Health: The Hidden Connection

You might not realize it, but stress can influence your cat’s dental and overall health. When cats are anxious, they may eat less, groom excessively, or even grind their teeth—all of which can affect their mouth.

For example, moving homes, adding new pets, or changing routines can increase stress. Keeping your cat’s environment calm and predictable helps not only their mood but also their immune system and oral health.

👉 Learn more about feline emotions here:
Understanding Indoor Cat Mood: Signs of Stress

💬 Final Thoughts: A Healthy Mouth Means a Happier Cat

So, how often should indoor cats get a dental cleaning?
At least once a year, with more frequent cleanings for seniors or cats with known dental issues.

Consistent care—both at home and at the vet—can prevent painful dental disease, expensive procedures, and even life-threatening complications. Your cat depends on you to notice the small things, and oral care is one of the most important.

A healthy mouth isn’t just about looks—it’s about your cat’s comfort, happiness, and longevity.

If this guide helped you understand more about feline dental care, share this article with other cat lovers. You might just help another kitty keep their smile bright and pain-free. 🐾💚

External reference:
For trusted dental health information, visit the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC).