Dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions in pets. By the age of three, 70 percent of cats and 80 percent of dogs have some form of dental disease which can take years off a pet's life.
Dental disease can result in life-threatening complications. Bacteria from the mouth travels under the gum line and into the bloodstream affecting all major organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys. That is why pet owners must take preventative measures.
Here are some great tips to keeping your pet's breath fresh!
• Regular Brushing
You need to brush your pet's teeth once a day! Use a pet-safe toothpaste and a finger brush or cloth to gently clean away plaque. This is very important and is the most effective way to prevent dental disease.
Without brushing, plaque can build up, putting the dog or cat at risk of bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. This may later cause painful infection affecting the animal's ability or desire to eat and cause more damage to its health.
• Dental Diet & Treats
Dental diets and treats are formulated to help scrub the teeth as the dog chews.
• Chew Toys
Good chew toys can help slow dental disease through their abrasive action. A good toy is bendable, softer than teeth, and must not be so small that it can be swallowed whole.
Opt for rubbery and bendable chew toys that allow treats to be tucked inside. Avoid thick, heavy, rawhide toys, hard Yak cheese or Antler horns that can break or fracture a pet's teeth or worse, cause gastrointestinal problems if a pet swallows a large piece.
• Dental Scaling & Polishing
Proper pet dental care involves more than just brushing or scraping tartar off the teeth. A thorough cleaning involves scaling, probing, and polishing at the clinic by a veterinarian.
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When performed correctly, this helps catch early signs of dental disease and abnormalities and possibly, prevent future extractions.
By: Dr Goh Shuling (Dr Forest)
BVSc (Melbourne)(Hons)
Principal Vet, Happy Vet
About Happy Vet…
Happy Vet is a dedicated housecall vet service. Professional, caring, compassionate and trusted, they provide a wide range of vet care services for your pets in the comfort of your home.
Dr Forest is the Principal Vet of Happy Vet. She believes in the importance of working closely with pet owners to provide the best possible care for their furkids.
• For more info: HAPPY VET
PRODUCT PICKS
From Pet Lovers Centre
Vetiq:
2-in-1 Enzymatic Toothcare Kit
Vetiq’s advanced 2-in-1 formula supports gum health and freshens breath. It contains glucose oxidase to help reduce micro-organisms in the mouth, and features pomegranate to control plaque. It is also enriched with enzymes to reduce bacteria and prevent tartar build-up. This kit comes with a biodegradable toothbrush and silicone finger brush.
Petosan:
Twin Head Toothbrush (Toy Dogs)
Petosan’s twin head toothbrush cleans both sides of the teeth at the same time, making it more efficient and more effective. Its two brush heads hugs the teeth, cleaning the front and the back of the teeth at the same time. Ideal for toy breeds, it simplifies brushing your pet´s teeth and helps improve its oral health.
Petosan:
Dental Kit (Toothpaste & Toothbrush)
Specifically formulated for pets to help remove plaque and prevent the build-up of tartar. Tasty poultry flavour. No rinsing required. Designed by dentists and veterinarians, the Petosan Dental Kit makes dental cleaning at home easier to accomplish. The brush is angled towards the teeth and gum line for optimal plaque removal.
Petosan:
Oral Cleaner (Microfibre Finger Cloth)
Petosan Oral Cleaner is an antimicrobial, chemical-free, self-cleaning microfiber finger cloth that helps remove plaque and bacteria in the mouth. It ensures easy cleaning of teeth and mouth and is the ideal approach to regular tooth brushing. The finger cloth fits a regular finger size (approx 2ins/5cm).
Taurus:
Toothbrush For Small Dogs
The Taurus toothbrush for small dogs, made with soft materials, is suitable as the pup’s first toothbrush. With its high density 4mm long polypropylene and nylon fibres, it is safe and easy to brush the teeth of your small dog.
Taurus:
Dental Liquid
The Taurus Dental Liquid is an alkaline electrolyzed water that works on the source of plaque and tartar. It is both tasteless and odourless and suitable for pet owners who have problems brushing their pets’ teeth. It does not contain preservatives and is suitable for dogs four months old and above.