February is National Pet Dental Health Month!
How often do you think about brushing Fluffy’s teeth? Dental disease can be quite painful and dangerous for you pet! Does Fifo’s breath make your garbage smell like a bouquet of flowers? Are they not interested in playing with their toys anymore? This could be signs that your pet’s teeth are hurting them and they could use a pet dental checkup. Having your pet seen annually by a veterinarian allows them to get their teeth check, just like we do.
Signs and Symptoms of Needed Pet Dental Care:
Bad breath
Eating difficulties
Problem gums
Stained teeth
Loose/broken teeth
Lethargy, weight loss
Excessive salivation
Swelling on the face
Almost all pets will suffer from dental disease at some point. There are however certain breeds that tend to have more issues than others. We find that our smaller friends, likes Yorkies, Pugs, Chihuahuas, and Poodles have the most issues. A lot of cats also have dental problems as well due to the smaller mouths and different diets. About 70% of cats and 80% of dogs 3 years and older have oral diseases. If they do not treat the problem it can lead to pain, emaciation, tooth loss, sinus infections, sepsis and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can contribute to or increase the risk of infection of heart/lungs/kidneys, heart failure, cancer, arthritis and spinal disease.
Some good ways to help your pet’s teeth stay sparkling white and in great shape are: Having a regular checkup, dental toys, and dental specific treats! Check out different products that have been approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Consult. If you feed like your pet has any of the issues or symptoms discussed here, feel free to contact the office to set up an appointment for an exam! Or if you want some suggestions on how you can improve your Pets dental health you can call or check out our Pinterest page!
http://www.vohc.org/VOHCAcceptedProductsTable_Cats.pdf
http://www.vohc.org/VOHCAcceptedProductsTable_Dogs.pdf
https://www.pinterest.com/DoorbellVetRoc/dental-month/
