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5 Things To Do For Pet Dental Health Month
February 1, 2023
February is Pet Dental Health Month! Your pet’s oral health plays a huge role in their health and well-being, just as ours does. Our animal companions can actually be afflicted by many of the same problems that we can, such as misalignments, abscesses, and gum disease. These issues are not only painful, they can also be quite dangerous. Any infections that close to the brain are a serious concern! A Columbia, MD vet lists some ways to keep your pet’s teeth healthy in this article.
Brush ‘Em
Your best weapon against pet dental issues? A toothbrush. A pet toothbrush, specifically: you don’t want to use one made for humans, as ours aren’t angled the right way for Fluffy and Fido. There will of course be some training involved. Start slow, and incorporate lots of treats, praise, and attention. When your dog or cat has accepted that, incorporate pet toothpaste. You don’t have to brush your furry friend’s whole month daily: just do one section a day and keep rotating.Dental Treats
If brushing is a no-go, don’t worry: you can still keep your pet’s mouth clean by offering dental-formula treats and chews. Your vet may also recommend oral rinses or dental flakes. Ask for recommendations.Learn Warning Signs
It’s important to watch for signs of trouble, which may be very subtle at first. Some things to look for include bad breath, bleeding gums, visible swelling and/or tartar buildup, excessive drool, and dribbling food. You may also notice a change in eating habits. Pets with dental issues may dribble food, take longer eating, or avoid hard kibble and treats. Understandably, crankiness is another red flag. Kitties may paw at their mouths. They may also begin to look a bit unkempt, as dental pain can interfere with their ability to groom themselves.Provide Suitable Chews
This one is mostly for Fido, though there are also dental formula treats for kitties. Chewing helps keep your pup’s jaws strong, and also helps promote saliva flow, which rinses away food particles and helps prevent plaque formation.Water
Water is of course crucial to your furry pal’s survival, but it’s also key to good oral health. Consider getting Fido or Fluffy a fountain. Many pets prefer running water! Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Columbia, MD pet clinic, today!
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