Cats are naturally curious creatures. Unfortunately, that curiosity can lead to accidents and injuries. If your cat has suffered dental injuries, you'll need to take quick action. Without proper care, your cat may develop a dental infection that can lead to health problems. Here are four steps you should take if your cat has suffered a dental injury.

Find and Preserve the Tooth

If your cat has lost a tooth, you should try to find it as quickly as possible. With rapid response, the veterinarian may be able to save the tooth and prevent permanent loss. If you're able to locate the tooth, rinse it off with fresh water and place it in a small container of milk. Bring the tooth with you to the veterinarian.

Provide Plenty of Cold Water

If your cat is bleeding from the wound site, you'll need to stop the bleeding. The easiest way to do that is to provide plenty of ice-cold water. Fill a bowl with ice and add water. Place the bowl of water in front of your cat and urge it to drink as much as possible. If your cat won't drink the water, dip a clean cloth in the water and apply the cloth directly to the wound site. The cold will constrict the blood vessels, which will stop the bleeding. It will also relieve the pain and reduce the inflammation.

Apply Pain Reliever

If your cat is experiencing pain associated with the dental injury, you should apply a topical anesthetic to the area. You can use any type of over-the-counter pain relieving gel. Simply place a small amount of the pain reliever on to your fingertip and massage the gel directly on to the gums and affected tooth. This will help relieve the pain until you can get professional dental care for your cat.

Get to the Veterinarian

Once you've stopped the bleeding, cleaned the tooth, and applied the pain reliever, you'll need to get your cat to your veterinarian. This is particularly important if the tooth injury was associated with an accident or fight. Place your cat in a pet carrier to help keep it calm during transport. Be sure to let your veterinarian know that you're on your way. This will allow them to prepare for your arrival in advance.

If your cat has a dental injury, use the instructions provided above to stabilize the injury. Be sure to keep in contact with your veterinarian to ensure that your cat's dental injuries heal properly. For more information, contact an animal hospital like Parkview Animal Hospital.