Why your pet needs dental care too 
Did you know dental ailments are one of the most untreated medical conditions in pets? That’s right; most pet owners spend hours grooming their fluff buddies, but often neglect the dental hygiene of their pets. And that can be disastrous for your pet’s overall well-being.
Dental diseases can lead to internal medical problems in pets, especially in dogs. And considering the high prevalence of dental defects and the lack of care, it’s not surprising that many domestic animals develop liver problems later in life.
To raise awareness regarding the matter, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) sponsors National Pet dental health month every year. Each year, February is dedicated to urging pet owners to take preventative dental measures for their animal friends.Pets become more susceptible to developing an oral condition after the age of two. Approximately 70-85% of cats and dogs are affected by periodontal disease after turning 3. Periodontal disease is an oral condition characterized by swollen gums and bloody tissues around the teeth. It’s one of the most common oral conditions in animals. Other common dental maladies, aside from periodontal disease, are:
- Broken teeth
- Loose Teeth
- Fractured jaw
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Abscesses or infected teeth
- Malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth and bite
- Cysts or tumors in the mouth
- Palate defects such as a cleft palate
To save your pet from developing dental irregularities, a pet owner should take them to the vet at least once a year. However, if you spot some abnormalities in your pet’s eating behavior, accompanied by some dental warning signs, then you should make the trip to the vet sooner. The most common symptoms of an oral condition in a pet are:
- Stinky breath
- Laborious chewing
- Bleeding in the mouth
- Tartar build-up
- Refusal to eat
Regular dental checkups are essential, but daily at-home care is also necessary for pets. You should brush your pet’s teeth daily; if you can’t do it every day, make sure to do it at least five times a week. Clean your pet’s mouth after every meal and frequently use mouthwashes and wipes to wipe the area in and around the mouth.
Your pet is unable to tell you that they’re having dental issues, and so you need to proactive about their oral health. Use this month as an opportunity to learn more about what you can do.
If needed, you may board your new puppy and take advantage of our dog training chapel hill services this new year. Our dog training nc centers are clean and well maintained. Also, don’t forget we offer dog grooming Durham services too.
