My kittens are both 8-9 months old. I am introducing them to teeth-brushing, but they don‘t seem to care for it too much. I‘m using CET poultry flavored + their double-sided brush. Right now, I‘m just swiping it across their teeth to let them get used to the flavor and the sensation or whatever.When I was purchasing it from the vet, the cashier told me to instead get a water additive, but it contained Xylitol, which people are still arguing over whether or not it‘s bad for cats.
What's worked the best for us is the C.E.T. oral rinse. It comes in a large bottle for $11 and you're supposed to squirt it in the mouth with the tube, but that is hard to work with on a cat, so get a needle-less syringe and just pull up 1/2 tsp. out of the bottle and squirt it in the cat's mouth that way. It destroys bacteria, and does a very good job of keeping the mouth from smelling plus helps the teeth. Our cat isn't too fond of the taste (it's a little sugary) but he stands still for it. If you have your cat stand, and scruff him, that pulls the lips back somewhat, then just tilt the head up a bit to open the jaws and in the stuff goes.
What about the CET water additive? You obviously already know about their products, so perhaps that one has xylitol? EDIT: Yes, it does contain x. I don't know. If I were you, I'd read up on the alleged negative effects of xylitol so you have a decent understanding of what it's supposed to cause. EDIT: It's very toxic for dogs. Nothing has been found for cats. So it *appears* to be safe enough for them. Then try to decide if the benefits outweigh the risks. I used to use their additive but my girls only eat wet food now and don't drink as much. I know I could still use it but it just seemed kind of pointless to me. EDIT: Personally, I think I'd skip it. If you're going to be brushing their teeth and if you're using the CET treats too, I think you'll probably be good. Perhaps in another year or two it'll be worth checking into again. Also, rather than water you can look into food additives. If you want to take that extra bit of precaution, that is.
The Greenies and CET chews, and teeth brushing are great. Also try Biotine water additive or gel. A food that is good is called Hill's T/D. You can feed it exclusivley, or feed a few with the normal food or as a snack. Your cat may also need occasional dental cleanings. February is dental health month, and most clinics offer discounts on dental cleanings. Your cats are young enough that you should not need cleanings for another 2-3 years hopefully. EDIT- I checked at work today, and the Biotine water additive and gels do not have xylitol in them.
