It's important to use a toothpaste specifically designed for cats. Human toothpaste is not safe for cats to swallow, while cat toothpaste is. Cat toothpaste also contains enzymes that continue to work in the cat's mouth even after brushing is complete. Choosing a cat-specific toothpaste will ensure your cat's safety and provide the best dental care.

We recommend slowly training your cat to accept brushing of their teeth. Starting when they're young is the best way to do it, so they understand that it's a normal part of their day. Begin with a toothpaste that your cat really likes, and gradually get them to accept the toothpaste on a toothbrush. Then, start brushing their teeth for just a second or two, increasing the duration as they become more comfortable with the process.

Ideally, you should brush your cat's teeth every single day. This is the best way to keep your cat's teeth healthy. However, if you can do it even a couple of times a week, that will still help your cat maintain good dental health. The goal is to brush as frequently as possible.

While not as critical as the main food, treat ingredients and nutritional value still matter. Ensure the treats have good ingredients and don't contain too many calories, as treats can add up in a pet's diet. It's important to choose nutritionally balanced treats for your dog.

The most important thing to look for on dog food labels is whether the food is nutritionally complete and balanced. You can check for an AAFCO label to ensure the food meets these standards. Additionally, pay attention to the protein source and any extra claims the food may have, such as joint health benefits.

Life stages in dog food can be broken down into three categories: puppy, adult, and senior. Puppy food is essential for puppies' rapid growth and development, while adult food (sometimes called maintenance or all life stages) is suitable for dogs once they've reached their full size. Senior diets are a good option for older dogs.

While it's not necessary, there can be advantages to feeding breed or size-specific diets. Large or giant breed puppies should be fed large or giant breed puppy food, and this should continue as they grow into adults. There are also breed-specific foods available that have unique characteristics, which can be discussed during a consultation with your veterinarian.

Adult dogs should eat at least two times a day, usually breakfast and dinner. However, puppies need to eat three or four times a day due to their different nutritional needs.