Posted
February 16, 2016
Did you know: dental (periodontal) disease is the most common clinical condition in cats and dogs. Did you also know that it is completely preventable? Check out our five fast tips to monitor your pet’s dental health.
- Make sure your pet receives regular dental exams.
- Brushing your pet’s teeth is an effective way to maintain dental health between exams. Your veterinarian can teach you how to do this.
- Make sure to have your pet’s teeth cleaned as needed. Professional cleanings remove the plaque and tartar associated with dental disease. During a cleaning, your veterinary dentist will remove plaque and tartar above and underneath the gum line. This process does require general anesthesia.
- Ask your veterinarian if they would recommend dental products, diet plans, or treats for your pet.
- Watch for signs of dental disease:
- Bad breath
- Red gums
- Discolored teeth
- Loose teeth
- Broken teeth
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Tenderness around the mouth
- Drooling
- Dropping food
- Weight loss
- Poor appetite