Did you know that February is Pet Dental Health Month? Pets can develop many different dental problems, such as abscesses and gum disease. These issues can be both painful and dangerous, so it’s very important to keep your animal companion’s choppers in good health. A Town N Country vet discusses pet dental health below.
Dogs
Because Fido loves to chew, and often carries things with his mouth, he is at risk of developing many different issues, such as cracked or broken teeth. Gum disease is also very common in our canine pals. We recommend brushing your furry buddy’s teeth, using a doggy toothbrush and pet toothpaste. If your pooch isn’t having it, offer him dental-formula kibble, treats, or chews instead.
Cats
Kitties can develop common dental issues, such as misalignment and gum disease. They are also prone to tooth resorption and stomatitis, a painful mouth inflammation. If you have a kitten, start brushing Fluffy’s teeth while she is still little. Your pet may also benefit from dental-formula kibble.
Pocket Pets
Bunnies, Guinea pigs, hamsters, and other pocket pets have open-rooted teeth. This means that your pet’s choppers will never stop growing. To prevent painful dental issues, you’ll need to offer your furry pal suitable chew toys. Many wood, wicker, and cardboard items are fine, as long as they don’t have any sharp edges, dangling threads, or small parts, and aren’t coated in paint, varnish, glitter, or dye.
Signs of Dental Issues
While the exact signs of dental problems vary from pet to pet, there are some common ones, such as swelling; visible tartar buildup; and bloody, ropy, or excessive drool. (In cats and pocket pets, drool alone can be a warning sign.) You’ll also want to watch for behavioral clues, such as a reduced appetite, grumpiness, withdrawal, and reduced interest in play or chewing. Contact your vet immediately if you notice these symptoms, or any other unusual behavior.
Tips
Different types of pets have their own specific dental care needs. For instance, bunnies need lots of good grass hay, while dogs require suitable chew toys. Ask your vet for specific advice. Of course, no matter what kind of pet you have, making sure he or she always has fresh water is an absolute must!
Do you know or suspect that your pet has dental issues? Contact us, your Town N Country pet hospital, today!
