The Domestic Cat's Evolution: A Catalyst for Dental Challenges 

Our feline friends have traversed an extraordinary evolutionary path, transitioning from wild hunters to beloved members of our households. This domestication has brought about significant changes in their lifestyles, including shifts in diet and an unprecedented increase in life expectancy. These factors, while celebrating the progress of feline welfare, have also inadvertently paved the way for the rise of dental disease in domestic cats. 

An Altered Diet and Prolonged Life: Unintended Consequences 

The transition from the wild, where cats naturally wore down plaque on their teeth through the consumption of prey and roughage, to a domestic setting has been marked by a transformation in diet. Commercial diets, while convenient and formulated to meet nutritional needs, present a challenge to our cats' dental health. In particular, the consumption of wet food has been linked to the build-up of plaque on teeth and gums, creating an environment ripe for dental disease to take hold. 

Coupled with this dietary shift is the remarkable increase in the life expectancy of our feline companions. With improved healthcare and living environments, cats are now living longer than ever before. While this is a cause for celebration, it also means that our cats are more susceptible to age-related dental issues, contributing to the heightened risk of dental disease. 

Unravelling the Complexity: Factors Contributing to Dental Disease in Cats 

Beyond changes in diet and extended life expectancy, many interconnected factors amplify the risk of dental disease in our beloved cats. Dental disease in cats can also be exacerbated by genetics, poor oral hygiene, lack of dental care, and underlying health conditions. Such complexities underscore the need for a comprehensive understanding of feline dental health and proactive measures to mitigate these risks. 

Becoming Aware: The Long-Lasting Impacts of Dental Disease 

Dental disease, if left treated, can extend its reach beyond the confines of the mouth, impacting our feline friends on a systemic level. As bacteria builds up and plaque forms on gums and in teeth. Teeth can begin to decay, forming abscesses which can in turn lead to large infections within the gums, mouth and teeth. The insidious effects of untreated dental issues can give rise to a cascade of health complications, including heart, kidney, and liver issues, underscoring the urgency of proactive dental care. 

Embracing a Way Forward: Empowering Feline Dental Health 

Routine veterinary check-ups, and dental cleans can be an excellent way to remove pre-existing plaque rebuild up preventing decay of teeth and reduce inflammation of the gums. Combining regular dental visits with a balanced diet and high-quality dental supplements can help to reduce the impact of dental disease.  

DentaShield works from the inside out – the tiny bite sized chew contains a combination of concentrated Norwegian brown kelp, naturally high in occurring polyphenols to combat biofilm and SHMP to aid in the reduction of tartar formation and improve general oral health. These active ingredients are designed to be used daily to assist in the prevention of dental disease and plaque buildup. Naturally flavoured with Australian ovine plasma and tasty mackerel, with no artificial colours, flavours or binders. 

The take home message

Understanding and addressing dental disease in cats is not just an educational pursuit; it reflects our unwavering dedication to improving the lives of our cherished animals. We hope that this article has allowed you to understand how you can best support your cat to help promote their longevity.