As a pet owner, you know the importance of providing your pet with a healthy diet and routine checkups. However, did you know the importance of dental care for their overall health? Many pet owners neglect this aspect of their pet’s health which can lead to illness and poor dental hygiene.
This article will help you understand why dental hygiene is essential to the health of our pets and how to give them the best dental health they can get. Read on if your pet wants to stay looking and feeling great for many years.
What Is Dental Health Care for Pets?
Have you realized that dental health is equally vital to our four-legged pets as it is for humans? While flossing and brushing may not be accessible to pets in the same way humans are, routine dental visits should be a part of every pet’s routine, and this begins at home.
It doesn’t matter if it’s a dog, cat, or other animals. Essential dental hygiene habits like checking the gums and teeth are essential in all pets. In addition, feeding them healthy chews and treats helps keep their mouths healthy and helps reduce plaque build-up.
At least every year, bring your pet to the dog and cat dentist for a thorough dental checkup and cleaning. Your veterinarian may also recommend other treatments, such as fluoride and an oral rinse, to improve your pet’s oral health. Ensure you inquire about any changes to your diet to maintain an optimal level of dental care.
Symptoms of Poor Oral Health in Pets
Determining if you suspect your pet suffers from dental problems isn’t always easy. Be alert for indications or signs. If left untreated, dental problems could cause discomfort and can cause more serious medical problems.
If you observe your pets showing any of the following signs, they could be an indication of dental health concerns:
- Bad breath
- Changes in appetite or eating habits
- Refusal to eat hard food
- Excessive drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Brownish plaque on teeth
- Abnormal chewing behavior
- Picking up food with only one side of the mouth
Your pet’s warning signs of poor dental health must be considered severe, so get in touch with your vet immediately to obtain an opinion from an expert.
Dental Checkups and Regular Cleanings
Your pet needs regular dental checkups and cleanings. Inattention to their teeth can expose them to grave health risks. Periodontal disease is one of the cats’ and dogs’ most frequent health concerns. Unfortunately, most pet owners aren’t aware of the importance of regular dental examinations.
Professional pet cleanings are recommended annually during a dog or cat check up, particularly for the elderly or pets with medical issues.
Conclusion
With all the benefits of regular dental care for your pet, It’s evident that cleaning their teeth should not be ignored! By taking the extra time to clean their teeth, floss their gums, and take them to the vet regularly for checkups with the veterinarian, you’ll minimize the risk of severe health problems for your pet’s friends.