Oral care for cats and dogs is as vital as it is for humans, however, it’s the most overlooked health care dilemma among pets. Cats and dogs can get plaque build-up and gingivitis just like humans. Although cats and dogs don’t get cavities their teeth can rust. Rotten teeth can lead to your pet pain when eating and they may even fall out. Poor dental hygiene may lead to other health issues. The best method to avoid health issues is to provide your pet with routine dental hygiene.
- The American Veterinary Society reports that by age three around eighty percent of our pets show signs of dental disease. If your pet has plaque build-up it may result in gingivitis, jagged teeth, and bad breath. A good deal of these issues is caused by feeding your pet a lousy diet. Contrary to popular belief processed industrial kibble can actually stick to your pet’s teeth and lead to plaque build-up, like when we eat crackers. A home-cooked diet will guarantee your pet is getting the appropriate nutrients to build a strong immune system. A powerful immune system helps fight diseases, such as dental disease. Let your pet crunch on natural snacks like raw carrots and apples to help remove dirt and food particles from their teeth. Dogs and cats don’t require dental care in the wild since they do not eat kibble.
- Plaque build up stems from food that’s stuck on your pet’s teeth. Once these particles harden they calcify and turn to gingivitis. Besides an all-natural diet brushing your pet’s teeth every day will help remove excess grime collected throughout the day. It is possible to discover toothbrushes and toothpaste in the regional pet shop or online. You might also use a wet terry washcloth and wipe the teeth clean. Do not ever use toothpaste designed for humans. Additionally, it can make your pet sick.
- Let your puppy chew. Chewing comes naturally to most creatures. Raw natural bones help strengthen the jaw and remove particles from your pet’s teeth. Chew toys such as kongs and fleece tug toys are a fantastic way for the furry friend to wash their teeth and burns off excess energy also. My Golden has a couple of bones and automatically after every meal she lies on the floor and chews on a bone, almost like she’s brushing her own teeth. Animals in the wild get normal chances to chew.
- Plaque and gingivitis do not just influence your pet’s mouth. Once gingivitis gets under the gums it may get into the bloodstream and affect different areas of the body such as the heart, liver & kidneys. Pets do not usually get cavities however their teeth can become rotten and fall out. Rotten teeth can cause your pet pain. Have your veterinarian check your pet’s teeth throughout their annual examinations. You might want your pet checked out by your veterinarian twice per year. That way you can catch dental issues until they get out of control.
- This requires putting your pet. While a younger pet might be able to handle those cleanings you might want your pet to have anesthesia-free dental care. Many vet offices now provide anesthesia-free teeth cleaning. Ask your cat dentist if it’s available at their workplace.
To keep your pet healthy be sure that you include dental hygiene in their general health care regiment. Feeding your pet a fantastic all-natural diet, brushing their teeth, giving them lots of opportunities to chew will help fight dental issues. Assist them to live a long healthy lifestyle by caring for their teeth together with the rest of those.
Routine care is the trick to your dog or cat’s oral and general health. However, many pets don’t receive the regular oral hygiene they have to have to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
At our veterinary hospital, we offer complete dental care for dogs and cats in the Avon area, which ranges from basics like cleanings and polishing, to surgeries and dental x-rays.
Our veterinarians in Animal General provide restorative and preventative routine dental care and surgeries for dogs and cats in the Avon area. Check out these qualifications or visit animalgeneralct.com for more information.
We are also passionate about dental health education about home dental care for pet owners.