The Importance of Pet Dental Care

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February is National Pet Dental Health Month and so this month I will focus on this subject. 

Clean, strong teeth affect more than just your pet's mouth. Good oral hygiene has similar health benefits for pets as it does for humans. Likewise, poor dental health can affect a pet's lungs, heart, intestinal tract, joints and kidneys, just like their owners.

Unfortunately, pets' dental care is often overlooked. American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) studies indicate that nearly two-thirds of pet owners do not provide the dental care recommended by veterinarians, including dental examinations, cleanings and surgical procedures. Why not? Probably because our pets don't like having their teeth brushed any more than many adults like flossing twice a day. Animals cannot brush their own teeth, but most owners do not like to deal with a wiggling, hissing, biting, unhappy pet.

Signs of Dental Health Issues

Dogs’ and cats' breath are never flowery sweet, so bad breath is not always the best indicator of dental health problems. However, if you notice that your pet's breath is worse than usual, you may want to take a quick trip to the vet. Other signs of declining dental health include: drooling and stopping of grooming habits (for cats); lack of interest in playing with toys; loss of appetite; and swollen and/or bleeding gums. Keep your eye open for any loose or broken teeth as well as tumors under the tongue.

Act Now; Don't Wait

Untreated dental problems can be painful and may require serious, invasive treatment. So, if you have a puppy or kitten, my advice is to start a dental health regimen right away. If your pet is older, there is no time like the present. Stayed tuned next week with more details on how to take preventive care of your pet's teeth. In the meantime, if you have any questions about your pet's oral health, see your veterinarian soon. Early detection and treatment will pay off.