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Your pet probably doesn’t worry about making good, healthy lifestyle choices – they leave that to you. February is National Pet Dental Health Month, so it’s a good time to keep your pet’s smile healthy. Apart from lots of love, your furry buddy looks to you to provide healthy food, exercise, clean water, a good hygiene routine and plenty of playtime. And regular dental care. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), periodontal disease is the most common pet health problem. By the age of 2, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal disease (yikes!).
Does Your Pet Have a Dental Problem?
Just like you, your pet needs preventive dental care. Skipping checkups can cause pain, infections, tooth loss and can ruin your pet’s overall health. Your pet’s veterinarian can take care of most of your pet’s dental care needs. But sometimes dental problems pop up between checkups. If you see your pet drooling a lot, pawing at their face or mouth, if their breath is worse-than-usual, or they aren’t eating their favorite crunchy treats, they probably need to see the vet. Watch for behavior changes too, such as pulling away when you touch or pat their head, no interest in playing, or mood changes. Trust your instincts – if you sense your pet is having a health issue, you’re almost certainly right and should make an appointment with your vet.
What Happens During A Pet’s Dental Checkup?
Your veterinarian will examine your pet’s teeth for signs of decay, and remove tartar and plaque buildup that could otherwise lead to tooth decay and gum infections. If your pet has serious oral problems, your veterinarian may recommend a tooth extraction and prescribe medication to clear the infection. It’s not uncommon for pets to need sedation during dental procedures. That’s why, if your pet is having surgery for another health issue, your vet may suggest including a dental checkup and cleaning.
Taking Care of Your Pet’s Teeth
Brushing your dog or cat’s teeth regularly is part of being a good pet parent. It shouldn’t take more than a minute to brush your pet’s teeth, and even the smallest effort can make a big difference in their health and happiness. If you don’t want to brush your pet’s teeth at home, your vet probably offers tooth cleaning or can recommend the right person for the job. And remember it’s important to take care of your oral health too. Dental savings plans can help you do that, with discounts of 10-60% off most dental procedures. Learn more about dental savings plans.
