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Say Cheese! Tips for Keeping Your Pet’s Pearly Whites Clean
Did you know that keeping your dog or cat’s teeth clean is just as crucial as maintaining your own dental health? There are several ways to approach creating healthy habits for your pet to prevent oral issues.
Annual veterinary exams will help you to find out the state of your pet’s teeth. If you need any pointers on how to brush your dog or cat’s teeth, be sure to ask. Some dental treats and chews can be effective but should not replace regular tooth brushing and oral care.
There are also toys you can get for your dog or cat as part of their dental routine. In this article, you will learn a number of ways to keep your pet’s mouth clean and healthy.
Tips for Preserving Your Pet’s Dental Health
There are some simple solutions for taking care of your pet’s teeth. It is easier when you start your furry friend on an oral health routine from the time they are puppies and kittens. If your pet is not accustomed to having their mouth cleaned, they may protest, whine, and squirm. No pet parent wants to watch their pet feel anxious and uncomfortable. But even so, it is never too late to start.
Brush Their Teeth
Brushing your cat or dog’s teeth is the best way to reduce the chance that plaque and tartar will build up in their mouth. Many pet parents have difficulty sticking to an oral care routine for their pets. According to The American Kennel Club, you do not need to brush your pet’s teeth daily, but the more often you put this good habit into practice, the better.
Never use human toothpaste on your pet’s teeth. Instead, use pet-friendly toothpaste. Human toothpaste is harmful to dogs and cats. Some options for brushing equipment include:
- Arm & Hammer pets tartar control kit for dogs
- Pet toothbrush for dogs & cats with soft bristles
- Petsmile professional pet toothpaste
- VIWIK 4Pack cat and dog finger toothbrushes
Brushing your pet’s teeth can be a bonding experience. When they are cooperative, reward them with praise or a treat. Your pet should become acclimated to you touching their mouth. Use your finger to gently rub the inside of their mouth with a dab of toothpaste. Once they are used to that, switch to a pet toothbrush.
Employ either a circular or up-and-down motion when brushing. Only brush the teeth and around the gum line, but not the actual gums, because they can bleed. You should aim to brush your dog or cat’s teeth once weekly or every two weeks. It may not be realistic to try doing it daily. Pet toothpaste also comes in flavors like beef or chicken.
Annual Veterinary Exams
The only way you will know if you are doing an acceptable job brushing your pet’s teeth is if your vet approves your technique during your pet’s annual exams. Prevention is the key to combating dental disease. Your vet will check your dog or cat’s mouth to make sure it is free of dental issues. Some of the problems your vet could be looking for:
- Cavities
- Gingivitis
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Facial swelling
- Bleeding gums
- Tartar build-up
- Discolored teeth
All of the above can signify periodontal disease. In this case, your pet could require special procedures. Scaling and polishing the teeth is the first route. A root canal can save a damaged tooth. Surgical extraction is reserved for severe cases. Treatment of periodontal disease is imperative, as it can lead to issues with major organs and heart disease.
Dental Treats and Chews
Dogs and cats have dental treats and chews that can help freshen their breath and inhibit plaque and tartar. For dogs, Greenies dog dental care chews work well. For cats, Greenies feline dental care treats are an excellent choice. The treats mimic the brushing action on their teeth, and the saliva produced when your pet chews removes bacteria in the mouth.
It must be stressed that while dental treats and chews are a beneficial addition to your pet’s dental care routine, they should not be a substitute for regular brushing.
Dental Toys
Playing with a dental toy can protect your pet’s oral health. Chewing helps remove tartar, cleans teeth, and exercises your pet’s gums. Always supervise your pet when they chew on toys to make sure they are safe. Toys can also help if your puppy or kitten is teething. It takes pressure off the gums and alleviates pain from teething.
Your canine companion will like Hartz Chew ‘n Clean dental duo canine treat and chew toy. Your furry feline will enjoy the fresh breath mint stick dental feline chew toy made by Petstages.
Conclusion
There are several ways to protect your dog or cat’s teeth. Regular brushing is good prevention, and annual vet exams can reveal if your pet’s dental routine is acceptable. Dental treats, chews, and toys will provide fresh breath for your pet and eliminate tartar. Keeping your pet’s mouth clean will make them feel better and improve their overall health.
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