February is National Pet Dental Health Month. There are many pet owners who do not understand the importance of caring for their pet’s teeth. However, a lack of dental care can lead to oral disease. In fact, it is estimated that seven out of 10 cats, and 80 percent of dogs have an oral disease.
Fortunately, oral disease can be prevented with regular dental care. There are many steps you can take to prevent oral disease in your pet. Below is a list of some of the things you can do to keep your pet’s mouth healthy:
Regular Dental Examinations
Regular dental examinations are just as important for pets as they are for humans. Your pet should get an examination by a veterinarian at least once a year. Additionally, your pet needs to get regular dental cleanings.
At Home-Care Regimen
An at-home care regimen is essential to keeping your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. Talk to your pet’s veterinarian about an excellent at-home care regimen. Your vet may recommend nutritional supplements that prevent plaque from building up on the teeth. Many supplements can also prevent tartar buildup, which develops when plaque is not removed.
Recognize The Signs Of Dental Disease
If your pet already has dental disease, then it will need to be treated as soon as possible. Dental disease can increase the risk of many health problems, such as heart disease and liver problems. It can also affect the nervous system.
Some of the common signs of dental disease include loss of teeth, bad breath, weight loss, and discolored teeth. It is also common for pets with dental diseases to bleed from the mouth or drool. If you suspect that your pet has dental disease, then you should take him or her to the veterinarian as soon as possible.