Dental Health
Keeping up with your dog or cat’s dental health is as important as ensuring your pet has a proper diet and adequate exercise. Good oral care prevents plaque buildup, mouth disease, and the loss of teeth. Yet, as critical as good dental hygiene is to our pets, consistent and sufficient care can be easily overlooked.
Effective preventative care starts with practicing good habits that promote healthy teeth and avoiding activities that may cause your dog’s dental health to decline. Dogs should become accustomed to an at home dental routine at an early age. The earlier you begin, the better.
If you think your companion’s dental care has been lacking, here are a few steps to get you and your furry friend on the right path.
1. Schedule Annual Dental Appointments
Although home care is suggested to begin around the 6-8 week mark, dogs and cats are recommended to receive professional teeth cleanings from a vet at around two years old.
This timeframe is when tartar is likely to build up along the gum line. If left untreated, tartar can lead to gingivitis, and ultimately periodontal disease.
Annual cleaning can remove hard to reach tartar buildup, and help identify early signs of other dental problems. A professional teeth cleaning usually requires your pet to be put under anesthesia. Your vet can provide specific instructions on how to prepare your dog or cat for the procedure.
2. Brush Daily
A common misconception is that chew toys or bones can be used in lieu of teeth brushing. While toys and bones are great additions to your pet’s dental routine, they do not substitute proper brushing.
Ideally, dogs should have their teeth brushed daily, while cats can go two to three days between brushing. Initially, your pet may be reluctant to have its teeth brushed, but positive reinforcement can help ease the transition. The easiest method of getting your pet used to a dental routine is to start in the puppy or kitten stage. Another method is to use enzymatic toothpaste, which doesn’t require scrubbing of the teeth. Simply apply the paste to the teeth, and the enzymes within the toothpaste will break down bacteria. To beat bad breath, try Veggiedent Tartar Control Chews, or probiotics.
3. Monitor Your Pet’s Diet
Cavities in animals are rare, but staying away from sugary treats and food will help your pet avoid teeth rot, and other medical problems. Additionally, avoid the temptation of feeding your dog real bones. The enamel on real bones is typically stronger than your pet’s teeth, and can cause irreparable damage.
Animals can be prone to many of the dental problems humans experience. Without proper care, your pet can experience tooth decay, abscesses, and gum disease.
If you’re just beginning a dental routine, start slowly and gradually help your pet adjust to the process. Before you know it, your pet will be on its way to better dental health.
