Don't Forget the Fangs! Keeping Your Pet's Smile Sparkling
We all know how important brushing and flossing are for our own oral health, but many pet owners forget that their furry companions need dental care too! Just like us, pets can suffer from dental problems that can cause pain, discomfort, and even affect their overall health.
The Trouble with Tartar:
Just like our teeth, a pet's pearly whites accumulate plaque, a sticky film harbouring bacteria. If left unchecked, plaque hardens into tartar, a yellow or brown crust that can irritate gums and lead to gingivitis, inflammation of the gums. Untreated gingivitis can worsen, causing tooth loss and potentially allowing harmful bacteria into the bloodstream, impacting other organs.
Signs Your Pet Needs a Dental Check-Up:
Bad Breath: While occasional doggy breath is normal, persistent bad breath can indicate dental problems.
Red, Swollen Gums: Healthy gums should be pink and firm.
Difficulty Chewing: If your pet seems reluctant to chew or drops food while eating, it could be due to oral pain.
Fussy with food: Some owners may report that their pet will no longer eat dry food. Though some may truly be fussy, tooth pain can cause a pet to select softer foods.
Loose or Broken Teeth: These are signs of advanced dental disease.
Weight loss: Though many other health issues can cause weight loss, severe dental disease can also contribute to weight loss.
Brushing for Success:
In the same way that we should brush and floss our teeth twice a day, our pets also require regular brushing. There are pet-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste available in flavors that are actually palatable to your pet (chicken or beef anyone?). Start slowly, introducing the brush and toothpaste to your pet before attempting a full brushing session. We often find that teaching them from a puppy or kitten in a positive manner achieves the best results for toothbrush acceptance.
Dental Chews and Diet:
While brushing is ideal, some pets simply won't tolerate it. Dental chews and toys can be a helpful alternative. Look for products with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal, which indicates they have been shown to be effective in reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
Veterinary prescription dental diets such as Royal Canin Dental and Hills t/d are VOHC approved to help reduce dental disease and act as a toothbrush for your pet’s teeth.
Schedule Regular Checkups:
Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for monitoring your pet's oral health. Your veterinarian can perform a thorough dental cleaning under anaesthesia if necessary. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing serious dental problems down the road and also for preventing the need for tooth extractions.
By taking steps to ensure your pet's dental hygiene, you're not just giving them a fresh breath, you're contributing to their overall health and well-being. So, grab that pet toothbrush and get brushing for a wagging happy and healthy smile!
