National Pet Dental Health Month

It is common knowledge to cat and dog owners that they need to take their pets in for regular veterinary check-ups and shots, but it's not so common knowledge to cat and dog owners that dental care is just as important for their beloved pets. National Pet Dental Health Month is meant to inform cat and dog owners of the importance of dental health care to the overall health of their pet.

Why Dental Care is Important for Cats and Dogs. Unknown to many pet owners is just how common dental health problems are in cats and dogs. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by age three. Just like in human mouths, bacteria, tartar, and plaque can build up in the mouth of your cat or dog and just like in human mouths, these build-ups can lead to problems like bad breath, receding gums, bleeding gums, mouth pain, tooth decay, tooth loss, and infection. An infection in your pet's mouth that is left untreated can spread through their body to affect major organs or even cause death.

Signs and Symptoms of Cat and Dog Dental Problems. There are several signs and symptoms of dental problems that cat and dog owners should be on the lookout for, some more serious than others. These can include bad breath, tartar buildup, swollen gums, receding gums, bleeding gums, drooling, blood in the saliva or drool, broken or cracked teeth, abscessed teeth, changes in eating habits, change in temperament, inactivity, and rubbing their paw against their face.

There can be other signs or symptoms of dental problems in your cat or dog that you, as their owner, may notice. If something doesn't seem right, it is best to get your pet checked by a veterinarian.

Preventative Dental Care for Cats and Dogs. Stopping a problem before it starts is obviously the best treatment when it comes to your pet's dental care. Regular veterinary dental care and check-ups is the first and most important step in preventative dental care for your cat or dog. Once a good cleaning has been done by your vet, you need to continue your pet's dental care at home. Your vet may be able to show you how to brush your pet's teeth or you can watch some veterinary dental care videos online.

You can add to your pet's dental care by purchasing food and treats meant to benefit their oral health. You can find the Seal of Acceptance from the Veterinary Oral Health Council on products that control plaque and tartar in dogs and cats.

Tips for Brushing Your Pet's Teeth. Thinking about brushing your cat or dog's teeth may seem difficult, but it can actually be quite easy with some tips and a little patience. Also, making it enjoyable for your pet will go a long way. First, start the cleaning sessions with something they like, such as petting or grooming for a few minutes. Begin the first cleaning by letting them taste the tooth paste or gel before you try to brush any teeth. Only try to brush one or two teeth during the first cleaning, then give your pet a special treat as a reward for letting you brush their teeth.

For the first several weeks of cleaning your pet's teeth, only brush a little bit each time, don't worry about getting the whole mouth at once. Brush a little more as your pet gets used to it and allows you to. Always end each cleaning with a special treat that they will only get after you brush their teeth. This is a good time for a plaque or tartar-fighting treat, just make sure it's something they love and will look forward to, making them more likely to also look forward to and enjoy having their teeth brushed.

Never force your pet to let you brush their teeth and stop right away if your pet starts pulling away or fighting it. If you aggravate your pet by forcing them to get their teeth brushed, it is very likely that it will never go well from then on and it may even make it impossible for you to do it, requiring a trip to the vet and possibly anesthesia for each cleaning.

Where to Get Cat and Dog Dental Care Supplies. Your veterinary may carry cat and dog dental care supplies. You can also find them at many local pet stores and online pet stores. You may want to compare prices and reviews before purchasing a pet dental product. Keep in mind that different pets have different taste buds and you may have to try more than one product to find one your pet likes.

Sources:

California Veterinary Medical Association

American Veterinary Medical Association

Pet Dental

American Veterinary Dental Society

Veterinary Oral Health Council