Dental Care In Cats & Dogs

Have you had your pet's teeth checked recently? It is recommended that pets should have their teeth checked as often as we humans do, ideally every six months or so. These checks are recommended, as just like us, pets are prone to many different dental conditions and diseases.

Periodontal disease is the most common dental disease, affecting over 87% of dogs and 70% of cats over three years of age. This is an inflammatory disease that affects the supporting structures of the teeth (the gums). As well as inflammation of the gums, poor oral hygiene can lead to unpleasant breath, mouth pain, and difficulty eating.

As with all health care, prevention is better than cure. The best way to prevent dental disease is to brush your pet's teeth at least once a day. Brushing your pet's teeth should ideally be introduced from a young age, as although not impossible, it is always harder to teach an older pet a new trick.

There are specially formulated pet toothpastes that must be used, as human toothpaste often contains fluoride. An overdose of fluoride can cause vomiting and, in large doses, kidney failure. As well as toothpastes, there are a selection of toothbrushes that can help make brushing easier.

As already mentioned, brushing is definitely the best method to avoid dental disease. However, if you are unable to brush your pet's teeth, then the second-best option is a good-quality dental diet. The kibble's shape, texture, and size are designed to produce a mechanical brushing effect on the teeth, and its Pentasodium Triphosphate ingredient traps calcium in the saliva, making it unavailable for tartar formation.

As well as toothpaste and dental diets, there are two other products designed to aid optimal dental health: gum wipes and pet mouthwash.

The flavoured gum wipes contain antibacterial ingredients and have a mildly abrasive surface that can be used to wipe around the gums and surfaces of the teeth.

The mouthwash is a liquid that contains an antimicrobial ingredient and is designed to be added to your pet's water bowl daily. The active ingredients accumulate in the saliva when your pet drinks, allowing them to work in the crevices, helping to keep the mouth healthy and breath fresh throughout the day.

Throughout February, which is Pet Dental Month, we will be offering free dental clinic appointments with our Registered Veterinary Nurses. If you would like more advice or support on your pet's dental hygiene, please contact the surgery to arrange an appointment.

The dental clinics are designed to help establish good dental hygiene as part of your daily routine and can include demonstrations of recommended techniques and products if required.