Evidence-based information about cat dental disease prevention: toothbrushing training and techniques for animal welfare improvement.
Cats that do not receive regular dental preventive care accumulate tartar and develop periodontal disease that causes chronic oral pain. The welfare cost of preventable dental disease is substantial - studies show marked behavioural improvement after dental treatment in cats, indicating significant pre-treatment discomfort. Establishing toothbrushing as a routine from kittenhood is the most welfare-positive preventive strategy.