Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 6/8/2007

Question
Hello: When I visited the vet recently for routine vaccinations,I was told my cat should be on a low protein diet,as he seems to drink constantly(he especially likes drinking from the bathroom sink).He also has gingivitis,and heavy plaque build-up on his teeth.I was told on a previous visit that putting him under to clean his teeth was dangerous at his age.The vet I just saw gave me a dry prescription low protein diet which he said was the best at cleaning plaque,and asked to see the cat again in three months.
Of course,my cat doesn't like the new food,possibly because his gums are tender.Strangely,he has always been fed dry food.
The vet also noticed black pigmentation on the border of his ears,and said this was due to sun exposure,which was new to me.The cat also has black pigmentation on his lips/gums,which I always assumed was his natural coloration.
Is there some other less dangerous treatment option for his plaque/gingivitis?
Is there something I can do to encourage him to eat the prescription food?
Thanks


Answer
If his blood work does not show any kidney problems, then it is fairly safe to anesthetize him for the teeth cleaning.  We always start new foods putting a little with the old food and adding more each day.  Do this over 2 weeks. You can also soften the food in warm water to make it more palatable.