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My pet hates teeth brushing. What are easier dental care options?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 1 year and 2 months old | 8.2 lbs

I'm having lots of trouble with brushing Luna's teeth, she absolutely hates it. She hates anyone getting near her mouth (it's also really hard to give her oral meds). Even if you hold her against her will she will never calm down and just keep trying to get out. Are there any tips to make it easier? Or any alternatives?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on May 18th, 2018

Hi and thanks for posting! Don't worry- you are not alone! Many pets do not enjoy their owners brushing their teeth. The best thing really is to have a professional dental scaling with your veterinarian once a year. However, there are many dental products out there to help decrease plaque formation and prevent dental calculus build up. Perhaps a dental chewable, water additive, or a dental spray would be easier. I have included below a link to a list of dental products approved by the veterinary oral health council. http://www.vohc.org/VOHCAcceptedProductsTable_Cats.pdf I hope this helps!

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