Your pet counts on you for protection!
With major advances in treating serious infectious and other pet diseases, oral disease - most importantly periodontal or gum disease caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar - has become the number-one health problem for both dogs and cats. It's estimated that without proper dental care 80% of dogs and 70% of cats will show signs of oral disease by age three. With your help, your pets can have healthy teeth and gums throughout their lives.
You simply need to provide them with a few things:
- A nutritious diet
- Chew treats such as rawhide 'bones' (for dogs)
- Regular brushing at home
- Yearly dental checkups by a veterinarian
Good dental health begins with the proper diet!
The wrong kinds of food can cause dental distress in pets. Feeding your cat or dog a dry good rather than a moist, canned one will, through it's mild abrasive action on the teeth, help remove the bacterial plaque that can harden into tartar. Dry food also provides adequate chewing exercise and gum stimulation. Avoid giving your pet sweets and table scraps as they may also increase plaque and tartar formation. Your vet may recommend the use of special dry foods designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, especially if your pet is prone to dental problems due to his breed or individual genetic history.
Brushing your pet's teeth!
Dogs and cats need to have their teeth brushed in order to eliminate the dental plaque that can cause tooth decay and the formation of tartar, which can lead to gum disease. You should begin a regular, daily brushing routine as soon as you bring your new kitten home or, in the case of puppies, at six to eight weeks of age. Even older dogs or cats can be trained to accept having their teeth brushed. You simply need to introduce the activity gradually and make the experience a positive one for your pet. Reassure and priase him profusely throughout the process and reward him with a very special treat when it's finished.
Here's how it can be done:
Phase 1
Start by dipping a finger in beef bouillon for dogs, and tuna water or warm water for cats. Rub this finger gently over your pet's gums and one or two teeth. Repeat until your pet seems fairly comfortable with this activity.
Phase 2
Gradually, introduce a gauze-covered finger and gently scrub the teeth with a circular motion.
Phase 3
Then, you can begin to use a toothbrush, either an ultra-soft model designed for people (baby tooth-brushes work well for cats) or a special pet tooth-brush or finger brush, which is a rubber finger covering with a small brush built in at its tip.
Phase 4
Finally, once your pet is used to brushing, introduce the use of pet toothpaste in liquid or paste form. Most of these contain chlorexidine or stannous fluoride - ask your veterinarian for his or her recommendations. Don't use human toothpaste, as it can upset your pet's stomach. Your vet may also advise the use of an antiseptic spray or rinse after brushing.