Bringing in your cat for regular dental cleanings can drastically reduce his chances of developing oral disease later in life.

February is Pet Dental Health Month, and while dog owners have the advantage of being able to brush their companion's teeth, this is next to impossible with a cat. Felines sometimes get the short end of the stick when it comes to their dental health, as they normally don't exhibit obvious signs like bad breath, difficulty chewing and other symptoms. Worse yet, packing your furry friend in a pet carrier and listening to him cry all the way to the vet's office isn't exactly the most pleasant experience. However, there are steps you can take to improve your feline's dental health and help him avoid potentially painful ailments down the road. The American Veterinary Medical Association suggests having your feline's teeth cleaned every year, so it's time to get cracking!

According to DentistryIQ.com, one of the most common dental maladies that a cat will face is feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORL). While the causes of this disease are unknown, it can be treated if caught early enough. The disorder causes holes to develop in the enamel of a cat's teeth around the gumline. This can eventually lead to holes penetrating even deeper to the root, leaving him exposed to bacterial buildup and infection. According to PawNation.com, many veterinarians can overlook a cat's dental health, so you'll have to be proactive to get him to inspect your feline's teeth to spot any developing issues.

Unfortunately, once this process starts, it can't be reversed like filling a cavity, so tooth removal is the only option. One of the best ways to avoid this is to bring your feline in for regular dental cleanings. As plaque starts to build up on your feline's teeth, it can develop into tartar that can start to form near the gumline. While this will require anesthesia, it can dramatically decrease the likelihood that your companion will develop a dental disorder and all of the side effects that can go along with it.

You may even notice a change in your cat's demeanor by practicing proper dental care. After all, we all know how painful and annoying a loose or damaged tooth can be, so it is one of the best ways that you can improve cat wellness. You may just end up with a happier and healthier cat as a result!