Pet Dental Care – Brush Up on Your Pet’s Oral Health

Companionship, unconditional love, and security are just some of the perks of pet ownership.

Those of us who welcome pets into our homes understand that a certain commitment comes with becoming a pet parent. Although we recognize the need to provide food, shelter, and basic healthcare for our furry pals, pet dental care is something that often goes unnoticed. Proper dental care plays a large part in maintaining the health of our pets.

The American Animal Hospital Association notes that dental disease can start early in Fido’s life. By the age of three, most dogs and cats will have some level of dental disease. If dental disease is left untreated, pets may suffer from inflammation, infection, and even chronic pain.

Tips for Preventing Disease with Active Pet Dental Care

The animal health and wellness site VetStreet says that more than 70 percent of cats and dogs over age four are affected by periodontal disease. Bacteria from poor pet dental care may spread to other organs and cause illnesses. Recognizing the signs of pet dental disease and taking steps to alleviate it can keep pets healthy.

• Acknowledge bad breath. Bad breath is not something that comes with the territory of having a pet. Odor from a dog or cat’s mouth may indicate a problem such as stomatitis, a common feline condition that causes inflammation to the oral tissues and gums.
• Start brushing pets’ teeth. Brushing a pet’s teeth can promote good oral health and potentially prevent serious problems along the way. Always use a pet-safe toothpaste, and talk to a veterinarian about a special dental diet.
• Invest in other dental products. Seek products that receive the approval of the Veterinary Oral Health Council to help maintain good pet dental care and oral hygiene. Avoid products like synthetic bones, antlers, and weight-bearing animal bones, which can fracture teeth.
• Work with your veterinarian. Vets typically use X-rays to diagnose dental disease, as teeth may appear normal to the naked eye but still be diseased. Anesthesia is frequently used in dental evaluations and cleanings. It makes it safer and less stressful for the animal and the vet. Speak with your vet about the frequency of dental cleanings and care, asking any questions you may have about the safety and efficacy of anesthesia use.

Proper Pet Dental Care with Raw Bones

All the Best Pet Care notes that pet dental care begins with raw meaty bones, as they are nature’s toothbrushes. Despite food companies’ claim to the contrary, dry kibble does not clean teeth! Dogs raised on commercial food alone frequently develop tartar, gum disease, infected mouths, and bad breath while dogs raised on raw bones have clean, white teeth that never need scaling. Raw bones act like floss in the mouth, polishing and scraping away tartar as the animal crunches and gnaws. In addition, raw meat creates a somewhat acidic oral environment to retard plaque formation and freshen your pet’s breath.