I hope the vet will let you try some good dental treats/food for the kitties - that might make the 'stage' of their care less expensive.

I have also heard stories - one from my friend Donna (in Cochrane!) - that she had a vet who used his thumbnail to pry tartar off kitties' teeth. I guess it actually worked quite well, as the tartar forms on the outside of the teeth.

Maybe if you promise hubby a nice manicure....