Oral Care for Pets Crucial for Overall Health
February is Pet Dental Health Month, which makes it an ideal time to point out why oral care is important for pets to remain healthy. From daily preventatives such as brushing a pet’s teeth, to more extensive examination through a veterinarian, dental care is easy to attain.
Consulting with a veterinarian is the most important step, as only they can tell what kind of shape a pet’s teeth are really in. Holly Henschke is a Certified Veterinary Technician at Wildwood Animal Hospital.
According to Henschke, dental health is important because it can affect every aspect of the pet’s overall condition. “Poor dental health can cause pain, infections, abscesses, and left long enough, can affect the heart and kidneys,” she said.
Signs of dental problems can include, but is not limited to, drooling, loss of appetite, bad breath, discolored teeth, and tenderness around the mouth.
Establishing routine checkups will help determine what a pet needs to achieve optimum results. Henschke added that having a pet examined every 6 months to 1 year is recommended.
“Some dental health issues are only revealed after a series of dental radiographs (x-rays) are performed, showing diseased roots. Periodontal disease can be deceptive as sometimes it remains hidden until a thorough oral exam is performed under anesthesia,” she said.
After a checkup, routine dental care should be a part of a pet’s day-to-day life. Most stores carry a variety of chews that are aimed to prevent plaque and tartar from building up or help to wear it off with specially-formed ridges in the chew.
Specially-made toothpaste for dogs and cats can be purchased for a good daily brushing. Unlike toothpaste for humans, animals will enjoy a meaty flavor such as beef or chicken.
“Your veterinarian will be the best resource to determine which products are appropriate for your pet.” said Henschke.
To schedule an appointment for your pet please contact:
Wildwood Animal Hospital: (715) 387-1225
Marshfield Veterinary Service: (715) 387-1119
Castlerock Veterinary Hospital: (715) 389-1011