Having the vet clean your cat's teeth?

Last time we visited the vet, she said there was some minor plaque build up and to try brushing. I did try and discovered that it was literally impossible. When he was growing up - I did so much playing with his feet to try to get used to nail clippings but like a doofus - I never thought about his teeth. I'm going to call on Monday to find out the exact cost but has anyone had this done and what has it costed? We're in Ontario (Canada).





Also - what is involved? To they gas him or what? Is there anything I should be worried about? Will I get him back all drugged up and dopey like when he was 'snipped'?

Having the vet clean your cat's teeth?
It is very important to have your cat's teeth cleaned. The plaque you see built up is bacteria that can wash to its heart valves and kidneys. Most clinics sedate the pet and maintain sedation through gas anesthesia. They use an ultrasonic scaler and hand instrument to remove the plaque. Then they use a polisher to smooth out any grooves from the cleaning. Some clinic also apply a fluoride treatment if there are no pre-existing kidney problems (pre-anesthetic bloodwork is a good idea). They may even apply a sealant afterwards. The only worries are normal worries with anesthesia, but with pre-anesthetic screening like bloodwork and ecg screen it can lessen risks. After the cleaning consult with your vet on different methods of treating your cat's teeth to space out the instance of necessary dental cleanings. Our clinic charges about $200 for the cleaning, anesthesia....
Reply:Yes, they knock them out and do it while they're sleeping. Don't be surprised if they end up removing a few teeth--this is very common. Your cat might be a little unsteady/sleepy afterwards.





They removed some of my cat's teeth and she was very young, some of them were decayed. If they said light buildup then they probably won't. I just meant that if they did do that, it wouldn't be anything to worry about.
Reply:first get a blood test and if all goes well it will be ok GL
Reply:I'm in Alaska, and work a clinic where we base dentals on 3 different grades- mild, moderate, and severe. The cheapest dental is usually around $250, while the grade 3 dental (the worst) can run up to $500! But then again, Alaska is pretty pricey :)...





They will use an anesthetic, and if your kitty is a senior, they will most likely use propofol as well, which is a fast acting anesthetic, easier on senior pets, and helps them wake up faster. Once your kitty is under, they will clean and polish his teeth. Depending on whether they need to pull any teeth, you might be ltaking him home with some pain medication. I know that it is always scary to put an animal under, but a great dental can do WONDERS for their little mouths!





Hope some of this helps!
Reply:If your cat is exceptionally calm the vet may be able to do it without drugging him if there isn't a lot of scraping to be done. That is unlikely.





It'll just be a mild, short term sedative or anesthesia. Your vet won't use either if he thinks your cat is at risk. A little plaque is not worth risking the cat's life and even the worst vet I've encountered wouldn't go there.





It is a good idea to get his teeth cleaned when he needs it. Probably no more than once a year, if that. My old cat was so traumatized by vet visits that both the vet and I agreed it wasn't ever worth cleaning his teeth unless it became a serious problem. He lived 15 very full and happy years with only mild gingivitis at the end.





I've two new cats, now, about 1.5 years old, and one already has had a tooth abscess. The other has had no problems but I got his teeth cleaned at the same time anyway.





Depending on the drugs your vet uses and the time your cat spends at the vet after the cleaning he may still be dopey. Still, if your vet is good and is comfortable with the cat's health he should be just fine.





My vet is relatively new to the area (but REALLY good!) and has ridiculously low rates for those of us who have been with him from the start. He charged $64 USD for the two of them. I'm quite certain that's way below the normal cost but it may not be much more for more normal rates and one cat.

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