Cat Services

How do you know if my cat has allergies? 

You can identify allergy symptoms in your cat if they are frequently itching, scratching, or losing hair. Skin lesions, such as red bumps, crusts, and scabs, may also appear. Additionally, some cats may develop a cough as a result of allergies. In certain cases, gastrointestinal symptoms like soft stool can occur, along with mild signs such as runny eyes or a runny nose.

What causes my cat to have allergies? 

Flea allergies are the most common cause of allergic reactions in cats. In fact, dermatologists estimate that effective flea control can resolve around 90% of feline skin issues. However, cats can also develop food allergies, typically reacting to a protein source in their diet—though, in some cases, carbohydrates may also trigger symptoms. Environmental allergies are another possibility, with potential irritants ranging from household dust, mites, and mold to outdoor allergens like pollen, trees, and grasses.

Can you cure cat allergies?

Unfortunately, cat allergies have no cure—management is the key, often requiring some trial and error to find the best approach for you and your feline companion. A major focus is reducing allergens in your home, which can be done by frequently changing your furnace filter, vacuuming regularly, and keeping windows closed to minimize exposure. If your cat ventures outdoors, wiping them down afterward can help remove allergens clinging to their coat, further easing symptoms.

How do you know if my cat's allergies are serious enough to bring to the vet? 

If your cat is experiencing excessive scratching, hair loss, itching, skin lesions, ear infections, coughing, or simply seems unwell, these may be signs of an underlying issue. It’s best to bring them in for an evaluation so we can identify the problem and provide the care they need.

I just wanted to take a moment to talk about something I’m really passionate about - dentistry - and why it means so much to me. Maintaining your pet’s oral health isn’t just about fresh breath; it plays a huge role in their overall health and well-being. A healthy mouth can prevent unnecessary pain—especially the kind our pets can’t communicate—and has a big impact on their quality and length of life.

Proper dental care can include routine brushing at home, using products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, and periodic professional cleanings under anesthesia, including dental X-rays. These X-rays are incredibly valuable in helping us detect issues that aren’t visible on the surface—like hidden pain or damaged teeth—so we can intervene before the problem worsens.

Since our pets can’t tell us when something hurts, it’s our responsibility to look for signs of dental disease and take action. And when treatment or surgery is needed, we’re here to help. We’ve found that pets who receive regular dental care are not only more comfortable but tend to live longer, healthier lives.

Do I need to brush my pet's teeth?

Brushing your pet's teeth is essential for their overall health. It's the most effective way to prevent periodontal disease - a bacterial infection that affects the structures supporting the teeth. When these areas become infected, it can lead to loose, painful teeth and serious oral discomfort. By maintaining good dental hygiene, you’re helping ensure your pet stays happy, healthy, and pain-free.

How often do I need to brush my pet's teeth?

Brushing daily is key - even if it’s not the answer everyone wants to hear. Plaque starts forming constantly, and within just 24 hours, it can harden into tough, stubborn calculus. By brushing every day, you’re clearing away plaque before it has a chance to settle and harden, helping to maintain a cleaner, healthier mouth.

What supplies do I need to brush my pet's teeth?

To get started with brushing your pet’s teeth, you’ll need a few key supplies. First and foremost: a toothbrush that fits your pet’s mouth. For a cat, a baby or kids size toothbrush works well. It’s best to choose something inexpensive since pets often chew on the bristles, meaning you’ll likely need to replace it fairly often.

Many pet owners also prefer using a finger brush, or even just a soft washcloth, especially if that feels more comfortable for them and their pet.

You’ll also need a pet-specific toothpaste - never use human toothpaste, as it contains fluoride and other ingredients not meant to be swallowed. Pets will almost certainly try to swallow the toothpaste, so it’s important to use one that’s safe and appealing to them. For example, this CET brand poultry-flavored option tends to be a hit. The key is finding a flavor your pet enjoys to make brushing a more pleasant experience for both of you

How do I brush my pet's teeth?

Start by putting a bit of pet-safe toothpaste on the toothbrush and simply let your pet lick it off. This step helps create a positive association - they’ll start to enjoy the taste and get familiar with the toothbrush. Try doing this daily for a week or two, until your pet begins to look forward to “brush time” and may even remind you it’s time for their dental treat!

Once your pet is comfortable and excited about the toothbrush, begin by gently brushing the front incisors. Gradually, as they become more relaxed, you can slowly work your way further back along the teeth.

Take it at your pet’s pace - don’t force the process. If they show signs of discomfort, pause and slow things down to match their comfort level. And when you do start brushing more thoroughly, focus most of your effort on the cheek-facing sides of the teeth, since that’s where plaque and tartar build up the most - not the tongue side.

What are the signs of dental problems in my pet?

Bad breath and red gums are clear warning signs of dental trouble. Contrary to popular belief, your cat's breath shouldn’t be stinky - so if it is, it’s worth taking a closer look. Other red flags include swollen or bleeding gums, unusual growths or masses around the gum line, drooling, and difficulty chewing.

You might also notice subtle signs, like your pet chewing only on one side of their mouth or favoring one side when eating kibble. These behaviors can indicate mouth pain that needs attention.

Is a professional dental cleaning necessary?

Daily brushing is incredibly helpful, but it doesn’t always reach below the gum line where tartar can build up. That’s where professional dental cleanings at your veterinarian’s office come in. These cleanings include full-mouth X-rays, careful probing of the gum pockets, and thorough scaling and polishing - especially beneath the gum line - to remove tartar and help slow the progression of periodontal disease.

So even if you brush your cat’s teeth every day, it’s still a good idea to schedule regular professional cleanings under anesthesia for a truly deep clean and better long-term dental health.

What if I can't brush my pet's teeth?

Some pets simply won’t tolerate toothbrushing - and that’s perfectly okay. In those cases, there are approved alternatives that can still support oral health. For example, products like Greenies are backed by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) and have been shown to help reduce tartar and bad breath.

I recommend checking the VOHC website for a full list of approved options. When shopping, look for the VOHC seal of approval on dental chews, treats, or other products - that’s your sign they’ve been tested for effectiveness. There are also water additives and other tools available to help manage plaque buildup.

That said, daily brushing remains the gold standard, especially for cleaning the canines and front incisors - areas that chews might not reach effectively. But any effort you can make toward your pet’s dental care is a step in the right direction!

If you have any further questions about how to brush your pet's teeth, feel free to contact us at Covington Veterinary Hospital.