As with humans, good dental hygiene in cats is extremely important.

Without proper hygiene, plaque and tartar build up around the teeth and gums, which can lead to disease. Dental problems are very common in older cats and often lead to mouth pain and tooth loss as well as bad breath. Have your cat's teeth checked at least annually, more frequently in older cats.

For everyday maintenance, WHISKAS® with VITA-BITES® dry food now contains Dental Protection Plus with special ingredients scientifically proven to prevent the build-up of plaque and decay. There are also special food products that can help keep teeth clean such as WHISKAS® DENTABITS™ cat treats. Alternatives include raw chicken necks and wings twice a week, or regular tooth brushing with special cat tooth brushes and cat toothpaste.

For the best advice on how to maintain your cat's dental health, speak to your vet.