Hi Pet Parents,
We all know that Dental health is important for ourselves and the same is true for our pets as well. Did you know that poor dental health can not only cause issues within the mouth but can result in problems in other areas of the body too?
It is quite easy to forget about your pets pearly whites, so we thought it would be a great idea to have a look at how we can help prevent dental issues in our favourite furry friends.
So, lets talk about teeth…
Signs of Dental Disease:
• Bad Breath (Halitosis)
• Tartar (Calculus)
• Reddening of gums and bleeding
• Loose teeth and missing teeth Discharge around the mouth, eye or nose
• Fur staining around the mouth and front legs
• Pawing at mouth
• Difficulty chewing, dropping food or eating less Pain or swelling around the mouth
• Unwilling to be handled
If dental disease is not dealt with it will progressively get worse and can ultimately end up with your beloved pet becoming very very ill.
1.Plaque – sticky, colourless film that can develop over the teeth
2.Tarta/Calculus – calcified plaque which is yellow/brown in colour, forms in layers on the teeth
3.Gingivitis – redness of the gums and bleeding may occur when chewing
4.Peridontal Disease – worst and final stages of dental disease, a progression from gingivitis and can result in infections and bone loss.
The first three stages are all treatable but if left will progress to Peridontal disease and become irreversible.
Preventative Care
The good thing is there are several things we can do as owners to help slow down or even prevent dental disease from happening.
• Brush teeth every day using a suitable pet toothpaste (never human as Fluoride is toxic to our pets)
• Feed dry food instead of wet, the action of chewing a dry biscuit can help remove plaque and tartar build up.
• Feed a bigger kibble size, an increase of 50% has shown a 42% reduction in dental disease.
• Use Dental chews:
– Star shaped chews can help the natural cleaning process
– Choose the correct size for your pet Look for the anti-tarta agent (Sodium Hexametaphospahte)
– The use of Seaweed in food or treats helps reduce oral bacteria
– Decaffeinated green tea extract helps neutralise bad breath.
• Mouth washes, gels and sprays- enzymes action within these help offer daily protection.
If you do have any concerns about your pet’s dental health, please get in contact with your Vet and they will be able to give those pearly whites a once over and discuss any concerns with you so you can ensure your pooch or kitty has a perfect smile for as long as possible!
