Welcome to our guide on maintaining your furry friend’s oral health! Just like humans, dogs and cats can suffer from dental problems if proper oral hygiene is neglected. Dental issues can lead to pain, discomfort, and even systemic health problems if left untreated. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore dental preventative options for dogs and cats, helping you keep your pet’s smile bright and their mouths healthy.
Why Dental Health Matters:
Dental health plays a vital role in your pet’s overall well-being. Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, gingivitis, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Additionally, bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs, such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. By prioritizing dental care, you can help your pet live a happier, healthier life.
Dental Preventative Options for Dogs and Cats:
- Brushing – This is the best thing we can do to prevent tartar build up in your pet’s mouth. Before starting, we recommend desensitizing your pet with treats for 2 to 4 weeks. To do this, take your finger and rub it along your pet’s gums with their mouth closed, then give a high value treat. Do this 3 to 4 times a day until they connect the dots that messing with their mouth means treats. You will notice a change, they will wag their tail or start drooling.
- Brushing is most effective if done daily using a soft pet toothbrush and a well flavored pet toothpaste that is safe to be swallowed. (You do not need to use paste if it is causing issues. Paste at most aids brushing by about 10%) Virbac CET brand products or PetSmile are recommended. Alternatively, you may use a finger brush, or a wet towel to brush the teeth. The most important area is the outside surface of the upper teeth towards the back of your pet’s mouth. The easiest way to do this is by keeping their mouth closed and brushing under the gums.
- Brushing is most effective if done daily using a soft pet toothbrush and a well flavored pet toothpaste that is safe to be swallowed. (You do not need to use paste if it is causing issues. Paste at most aids brushing by about 10%) Virbac CET brand products or PetSmile are recommended. Alternatively, you may use a finger brush, or a wet towel to brush the teeth. The most important area is the outside surface of the upper teeth towards the back of your pet’s mouth. The easiest way to do this is by keeping their mouth closed and brushing under the gums.
- Chew treats – Many different dental chews exist to help reduce tartar and plaque on the teeth. We recommend Oravet chews to help decrease the bacterial population in their mouth, make bacteria less likely to grab onto enamel, and improve their breath. Another great option is Virbac CET chewables. These chews must be given daily to be effective and are best used in combination with brushing. Look for a VOHC label of approval on any dental treats you are feeding your pet.
- Chew toys – Although some chew toys can help clean the teeth, many can cause dental harm. Do not offer anything to your pet that cannot be indented with your thumbnail – anything that is firmer than this may break the teeth. Chew treats like raw hides and Greenies are not appropriate for an aggressive chewer who breaks off large chunks and swallows them.
- Diets – When animals chew hard kibble, it helps to brush plaque off of the teeth. For animals who tend to inhale their food, rather than chew, we recommend slowing them down with a puzzle or play feeder. You may also consider a diet with larger kibbles that force pets to chew, such as Hill’s t/d (for cats or dogs).
- Healthy Mouth Water Additive – This is a liquid you mix with your pet’s drinking water to make an oral rinse. It has been shown to decrease bacterial populations in the mouth and reduce tartar accumulation.
- Regular Veterinary Check-ups – Schedule regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian to assess your pet’s oral health and detect any dental problems early. Your veterinarian may recommend professional dental cleanings under anesthesia to remove plaque and tartar buildup and address any underlying issues.
Websites for Further Information and Products:
- The American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) – AVDC offers resources on pet dental health, including articles on dental care, preventative options, and finding a board-certified veterinary dentist.
- The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) – VOHC evaluates dental products for dogs and cats to determine their effectiveness in reducing plaque and tartar buildup. Their website provides a list of VOHC-approved products, including dental chews, treats, and additives.
- The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) – AAHA provides guidelines for pet dental care and offers resources on dental health for dogs and cats. Their website includes articles on dental preventative options, dental disease, and finding an accredited veterinary hospital.
By incorporating dental preventative options into your pet’s routine and prioritizing regular veterinary check-ups, you can help ensure that your furry friend enjoys good oral health throughout their life. Remember, a healthy smile is a happy pet!