Pet Dental Health Month – Identifying and Preventing Common Dental Problems
Dental illness is one of the most frequent issues in pets, with Australian veterinarians discovering that four out of every five dogs and cats over the age of three years have some kind of dental illness. Dental problems in pets can lead to foul breath, infection, and pain. Infected gums can also cause significant sickness if left untreated, as bacteria can enter your pet’s bloodstream and lodge in small blood vessels, most commonly in the liver or kidneys, causing life-threatening disease.
The month of August is dedicated to pet dental health, and the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) reminds pet owners that having a regular pet dental health check with your veterinarian is vital for detecting and managing dental illness in pets.
Dogs and cats can be stoic creatures who rarely show signs of pain. Even pets with sore gums, an infected mouth, and damaged teeth will continue to eat. Their urge for survival is quite strong. So, how can you determine whether your dog or cat is suffering from a toothache? And how can you help your pets keep their teeth and gums healthy?
Just keep on reading! Here we’ve compiled a list of helpful hints for identifying and preventing common dental problems that occur in pets.
How can you determine if your pet is suffering from a toothache?
It can be difficult to detect if your pet is suffering from a toothache. Animals have a tendency to hide their pain, and owners frequently miss the symptoms. So, how can you determine whether your dog or cat is suffering from a toothache?
The following are some common symptoms that something is problematic with your pet’s teeth:
- Bad or Foul breath
- Drooling
- Appetite loss or inability to eat
- Gnawing at the gums
- Mouth hung open / tongue drooping
- Using only one side of the mouth
- Food falling out of the mouth while chewing
- Plaque and stain accumulation on teeth
- Red, swollen and bleeding gums
Make an appointment with your veterinarian immediately if your pet is exhibiting any of these symptoms. Annual dental health checkups are another great approach for pet owners to find out whether their pet has any problems that have gone unnoticed.
Dental diseases are far more frequent than you might believe!
Periodontal disorders are one of the most common disorders that veterinarians confront. These diseases, if left untreated, can lead to major health problems in the kidneys, heart, and liver.
But don’t worry: if treated properly in the early stages, periodontal disorders can be reversed. This is why having your pet’s teeth checked on a regular basis is crucial! You can also safeguard your pets from dental disease in some simple ways. These are some of them:
- Provide specific dental treats and chews, bones, and dental diets to pets on a regular basis.
- Use Fresh Water Additives to dental water.
- Brushing with pet toothpaste and toothbrushes on a regular basis.
- Using specific dental gels for rinsing.
Dental checkups should be performed on all animals, big and small.
When it comes to oral health, it’s important to realize that cats and dogs aren’t the only ones who are affected. Horses and rabbits, for example, need to undergo regular dental exams to preserve their overall health and prevent the development of other health problems. To determine the best course of action for your pet, contact your local veterinarian.
How to Assist Your Pet in Getting a Healthy Set
Maintaining the oral health of your pets does not have to be tough! Annual health exams will reveal any dental or other issues that have arisen, and let you speak with your veterinarian about any concerns.
Throughout August, VetSupply will celebrate Pet Dental Health Month and support the Australian Veterinary Association in promoting Pet Dental Health Month by offering incredible discounts and special deals on pet dental products.
Visit VetSupply for branded dental hygiene products for dogs and cats, such as pet toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental spray gels, and other dental pet supplies to keep your pet’s oral health in good shape and disease-free.
