Dental care is an essential factor in your pet’s overall health. With February being National Pet Dental Health Awareness Month, let’s open the floor for a conversation about the importance of dental healthcare for pets. To get you started, we’re here to share our three favorite tricks to improve your pet’s teeth and gum health.
Get Familiar With The Signs of a Dental Problem
One of the most valuable tricks to adopt as a pet owner is to learn about the signs of dental concerns. Common dental problems in pets come with their own set of symptoms. By monitoring your pet’s teeth and gums periodically, you can catch these issues early on and pursue immediate treatment to avoid more complex and hazardous health situations. Common symptoms that point to dental concerns in pets include:
- Bad breath
- Broken teeth
- Loose teeth
- Tartar build-up
- Abnormal drooling
- Inability to chew or hold food properly
- Declining appetite or refusal to eat
- Noticeable pain around the mouth
- Bleeding of the mouth
- Mouth or facial swelling
Schedule Annual Dental Cleanings and Check-ups
It’s time to get in the habit of scheduling your pet’s veterinary dentist appointments on an annual basis. At least once a year, your pet should be seen by a veterinary professional to undergo a complete oral check-up and professional dental cleaning. However, if you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms in between your routine visits, it’s important to get proactive and make an appointment as soon as possible.
Adopt At-Home Oral Hygiene Habits For Your Pet
We understand that the cost of recurring dental care for your pet can be daunting. Fortunately, you can keep these visits to a minimum by adopting some simple, cost-effective at-home oral hygiene habits. For starters, it’s time to reconsider your pet’s food and treats. Talk to your veterinarian about switching your four-legged companion to kibble and treats that come with added dental benefits. These options increase chewing, allowing the food to work some of the tartar off of your pet’s teeth. Furthermore, you may also buy some pet-approved toothpaste and a toothbrush to keep up with your pet’s pearly whites at home.
Incorporating positive pet dental care habits into your routine is the key to optimizing your pet’s health and happiness. For more information, contact your local veterinarian today.
