Imagine what it would happen if you didn't care for your teeth regularly. The same basics of dental care also apply your pet's teeth.
Most people don't understand the serious consequences of poor pet dental. Bad breath and yellowing teeth are two of the earliest signs. But if left untreated, these easily overlooked symptoms of poor dental health can develop into periodontal disease or gingivitis. Even worse, it sometimes leads to kidney, liver, or heart disease. The American Veterinary Dental Society estimates that 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by age three.
As an owner what should you look out for?
What can I do for my pet?
Prevention is the best cure for dental disease in animals, and that includes annual visits to your veterinarian to have your pet's teeth examined. Dogs and cats should also have their teeth brushed on a regular basis, and special foods, along with dental chews, rawhide, dental bones and other healthy products that pets consider "treats," can help keep teeth white and free of disease.
In order to train your dog or cat to tolerate regular tooth brushing, start by massaging the animal's gums with an appropriate pet tooth paste. Poultry-flavored toothpaste is very popular, and most animals love the taste.
Toothpaste made for humans can make a pet sick. Once the animal starts accepting or even looking forward to this new ritual, introduce a toothbrush and clean the exterior of the animal's teeth.
If your pet already has signs of periodontal disease, a professional cleaning is in order. Talk to your veterinarian for more information on a dental health treatment and program for your pet.