The first step in training a dog or cat to accept daily brushing is to place a bit of animal toothpaste on your finger and let the animal lick it so that it becomes familiar with the texture and taste, said Melinda Harris, registered veterinary dental technician in the office of Steven Holmstrom, a veterinary dentist in San Carlos.
Animal toothpaste comes in meat or fish flavors that animals like. Unlike toothpaste for people, it can be swallowed. You can teach animals to tolerate brushing, but rinsing and spitting are a bit beyond them.
The next step is to lift the animal's lip and gently dab a bit of the toothpaste on a front tooth, Harris told Bob Hall and Anne Lynch of San Ramon, who had taken their Yorkshire terrier, Celine, to Holmstrom for treatment of periodontal disease.
"She's going to become acclimated to having the toothpaste and a finger in her mouth," Harris said as she demonstrated on Celine, who eagerly licked the toothpaste.
Then the owner should gradually expand the area of application, working back to the pre-molars, the ones that usually cause animals the most trouble.
All the while, the owner should praise the animal, making sure the experience is pleasant and relaxed.
"It will take some time to get her used to (brushing)," Holmstrom told Hall and Lynch. "You can't give up when she fights."
This routine should continue several times a day for a couple of weeks before the owner tries using a toothbrush designed and sized for the animal. Another alternative, Holmstrom said, is a soft brush meant for preschoolers. Some owners use child-size electric toothbrushes.
Once the animal becomes used to brushing, it should become a daily routine. Starting to brush when the pet is very young is preferable, but starting now is better than procrastinating.
Holmstrom recommends using C.E.T. brand enzymatic toothpaste for dogs and cats. It is available only through veterinarians.
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