Pet Dental Disease

It is very important to catch dog and/or cat dental disease early in their little lives.  It is actually seen in 80% of pets over 3 years old.  If not caught and treated it can cause kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, low birth rate and early death.

If you notice your pet has a loss of appetite, bad breath, shaking his head to a bothersome amount, swollen face or chin and sneezing excessively then take him/her to your Veterinarian ASAP.  The sooner a mouth or tooth problem is corrected, the better, not only for health reasons, but to make your pet feel more comfortable.  They depend on you for everything and they deserve the best of care.  Can you imagine having a toothache and not going to your dentist?  You couldn’t live with it and neither can your pet. 

Be sure not to use human toothpaste when brushing your pet’s teeth and gum.  Human toothpaste has a foaming additive that pets cannot use or swallow.  Use pet toothpaste that can come in flavors such as seafood or chicken/poultry. 

You can also use pet toys and chew toys to help break up the plaque and calculus that forms on pets’ teeth.   Many pet stores in your area and of course, online pet stores such as Furrypetstore.com carry these toys and bones that will help with this process.  

In addition to brushing and toys and special bones, there are additives that you can place in your pets’ food and water bowls.  Ask your Veterinarian or call their office for advice on these additives.