Feline dental care avoids problems later

If you look at the inside of your feline's mouth you will see perfection based on the functionality of the large fang-like teeth, tearing molars and baby grooming incisors. That is a lot of mouth to keep in great working condition (including teeth and gums).

Why should we be obsessed with our feline's dental health? Prevention of periodontal disease is key. If periodontal disease occurs you will be dealing with a host of problems, from tooth loss to infections and ultimately bacteria going into the blood stream, which can damage major organs.

Water additives, hard food and treats can be a great aid, but not the ultimate end-all cure. Nothing beats simple brushing of your feline's teeth. If you feline refuses to let you use a finger brush, start with something less invasive, like gauze, and work your way back to a finger brush or child's toothbrush.

Pet toothpaste can make the chore more tolerable for both of you. Your feline needs to accept teeth cleaning as a tasty treat. A word of caution regarding tooth paste - NEVER use human tooth paste, which will make your feline sick to its stomach. The cat will never let you near its mouth again with that type of negative experience.

Before you approach with feline toothpaste, just practice handling your feline's head by gently opening the mouth and inspecting the teeth. If this is routinely practiced, your feline will let you take the next progression of steps.

Sometimes tuna juice or canned food gravy can coax your feline to let you explore its mouth. Feline specific bottled gravy is also available at most pet stores. Wrapping the feline in a towel or blanket can also have a calming effect. Just know your feline's body language to know how much cleaning can be accomplished in any given session.

You should also start in small sections of the mouth to see how tolerant your feline is to the experience. If you go slowly, your feline will tolerate continued cleanings. A reward with a treat also makes the experience positive for both of you.

Finally, home care is only one part of the battle for a healthy feline mouth. Annual visits to your veterinarian for dental checks and possible cleanings are a must. Professional care is a crucial preventive measure for a healthy, happy feline mouth for the life of your pet.

February, coincidentally, happens to be dental maintenance month, so you have added incentive to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Preventive measures will actually save you money on veterinary expenses. More really is less.

Feature felines:

Salem is a black-and-white female and front paw declawed. She enjoys lounging on a soft chair and enjoys her treats.

Salem exhibits the aloofness expected of a stereotyped cat. She likes being petted, but when she has had enough will dismiss you with a light nip. Additionally, she tolerates the other cats, neither fighting with them nor being best friends with any of them.

If you are looking for a companion that will curl up near you while reading a good book in the evening, Salem may be the cat for you.

Rio is a handsome but very shy long-furred male. If you spend some time in Room Two at the shelter, you might get to meet Rio. He is an exceptionally handsome, almost regal cat, but it will take some time before he warms up to anyone he doesn't know.

Buddy's Birthday Party: This year, Buddy turns 21, so that means we are now of legal age to host our party. Join us from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, at Chandler's, 401 W. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, at the Schaumburg golf course.

The theme is a celebration of America, honoring our veterans and military men and women. Those on active duty will be invited as our guests with free admission. Our host will be award-winning radio personality Eddie Volkman.

The tickets are $30 presale; $35 at the door. Your donation includes an all-you-can-eat buffet, two drink and dessert. The evening also features a raffle, silent auction and entertainment.

This is a major fundraiser for Buddy's animals. If you cannot join us, perhaps you would still like to participate with a donation or raffle prize.

Valentine Photos: Join Buddy at the shelter, 65 Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 13, for photos with Valerie Valentine. The entire family is welcome, including your four-legged buddies. A special holiday backdrop will be provided. There is a $7.50 donation per printed photo.

• The Buddy Foundation, 65 W. Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, is a nonprofit (501c3), all volunteer, no-kill animal shelter. (847) 290-5806 or www.thebuddyfoundation.org.