She tightens her lips to keep me from getting to the back teeth that need it most and they or the gums seem quite sore. I’d use bonjela but it isn’t safe for cats. I only bought brush and paste but I should have got mouth gel and swabs to apply it in the hope of getting things less inflamed and sore before going in with the brush.

Maybe I can get a chance to swing by a pet shop that has them soon.

The teeth cleaning foods or treats contain poultry and grain which are a no go and the water additives run the risk of discouraging Melbcat from drinking (and she really needs to drink a lot).

But there is a vet approved toothpaste without sorbitol that could help and perhaps even a bit of mouth gel on a swab could work if she won’t allow physical brushing. Maybe the beef flavour would make her hate it less.

I’ve ordered the micro head cat toothbrush that’s smaller than the baby toothbrush and as an anti-theft measure am going to pick the parcel up from a local pharmacy.

I’m annoyed with myself for not getting on this sooner but got conflicting info from vets. Ages ago one vet said toothbrushing wasn’t a high priority and wasn’t likely to be tolerated - now other vets are saying it needs to be done and frequently.