Why Dental Care Matters for Your Pet’s Health
Asquith Veterinary Hospital on the Upper North Shore of Sydney acknowledges that pet dental care is extremely important in maintaining the general health and well-being of your pet. Most owners do not fully recognise the significance of good dental hygiene. Most health problems reported in dogs and cats revolve around their oral hygiene. Speak to our vet team today If you have any concerns.
Understanding Dental Disease in Pets
There is likely to be some form of dental disease occurring in most dogs and cats by the age of three. Plaque can develop, which then hardens into tartar and may then lead to further problems like gingivitis and infection, progressing to advanced periodontal disease. Bacteria that reside in the mouth can pass through into a pet’s blood system, affecting their vital organs. A thorough veterinary examination each year is necessary to rule out dental disease.
Signs of Dental Problems
Symptoms and signs of dental disease in pets generally are bad breath, trouble chewing or eating, bleeding and swelling of the gums, behavioural changes, loss of appetite, and reluctance to play with toys. that seem unable to explain themselves.
Preventive Dental Care
Most pets suffer from dental disease, and so preventing such dental disease from occurring is more advisable than seeking a cure. Visiting the vet for routine dental checkups and professional cleanings is beneficial, as they help ensure plaque and tartar that can accumulate under the gum line are removed. Early intervention not only improves oral health but also helps prevent more complex and costly treatments later on.
At-Home Dental Care Tips
Regularly brushing pets’ teeth at home with a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste is the best prevention for dental disease. Your pet may need to get used to this slowly, as they are naturally reluctant. Other things that may be useful include specially developed diets, chews designed to help with oral health or toys that may help clean your pets’ teeth.
The Cost of Neglecting Dental Health
Further to having expensive veterinary costs associated with treating poor dental hygiene, it may also affect the general well-being of your pet. They may find difficulty with certain foods and may be in pain when they are trying to play or when using toys that are of a firm consistency.
Promoting Awareness
It is hoped that the awareness of the importance of pet dental health, along with pet dental care tips, will encourage pet owners to take steps toward better oral health in their companions. Regular trips to the vet and examinations of teeth are the best preventative measures for ensuring that your pet continues to feel healthy and enjoys a long and enjoyable life. Addressing the little problems now is the only way to stop them from escalating into a large, more painful one down the line.
Arrange a dental examination or ask about signs of dental disease in pets by contacting Asquith Veterinary Hospital.