February is National Pet Dental Health Month, but your pet’s teeth need attention all year round! Many pet owners miss the warning signs of dental issues until it’s too late. Poor oral health isn’t just noticeable with bad breath, and worse: it can lead to serious health issues like heart, liver, and diseases! So discover how to avoid your pet having to go through a miserable time now!
The Unsuspected Risks of Unhealthy Pet Teeth
It’s not uncommon to downplay our pet’s dental problems, thinking they’ll resolve on their own over time. But this isn’t something you should ignore! Find out why now.
Heart, Liver, and Kidney Damage – The Hidden Connection
Infected gums can affect vital organs. Wondering how? Well, research shows a strong link between poor dental health and pet heart disease. Indeed, bacteria don’t just stay in the mouth – they go through the bloodstream and affect your pet’s organs. Plus, the liver and kidneys have to work overtime to filter out toxins from oral infections. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop periodontal disease by age three. That’s a lot of pets with hidden health risks!
Chronic Pain and Behavior Changes You Might Overlook
Pets have a natural defense mechanism – they instinctively hide pain. In the wild, showing weakness makes them easier prey for predators. So, is your dog suddenly avoiding chew toys? Does your cat seem grumpier than usual? These could be signs of dental discomfort! If you notice your pet chewing only on one side of their mouth or avoiding crunchy food, it’s time to take a closer look. Studies have even found that dogs with severe dental disease show behavioral improvements after treatment (Journal of Veterinary Dentistry).
Weakened Immune System and Increased Infection Risk
Did you know that chronic gum inflammation can weaken your pet’s immune system? Not many people do! Oral infections don’t just stop at the gums – they can lead to abscesses and even respiratory problems. A study from Banfield Pet Hospital found that pets with untreated dental disease are five times more likely to develop other infections. So, if your pet seems to be getting sick more often, their teeth could be to blame!
Tooth Loss and Its Impact on Your Pet’s Nutrition
Ever tried to eat a tough steak with a sore tooth? Now imagine how your pet feels. Chewing is the first step of digestion, and when pets lose teeth, eating becomes difficult. If your pet has been losing weight or seems hesitant to eat, it might not be picky eating – it could be painful chewing! According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, pets with dental disease are twice as likely to develop digestive problems.
The bottom line is that your pet’s teeth play a big role in their health and happiness! So, make sure to check it out regularly – we have what you need at Continental Animal Wellness Center!
5 Signs your Pet’s Teeth Are In Trouble
If you want to save money and spare your furry friend from a lot of hassle and pain, be sure to watch out for these five signs below!
Bad Breath That Isn’t Just “Dog Breath”
A little morning breath is normal, but if your pet’s breath makes you gag, it might be a sign of a much-needed checkup.
When should you bring your pet in for a dental exam? If your pet’s breath smells rotten or fishy, it can mean infection, gum disease, or tooth decay.
Your Furry Friend Is Drooling More Than Usual
Drooling more than usual? If your pet is leaving behind puddles or their drool looks thick and stringy, it’s time to investigate. Look for blood in the saliva or signs of discomfort when eating. Cats, in particular, are masters of disguise when it comes to mouth pain, so don’t ignore a drooling feline!
Your Pet Is Avoiding Their Food or Toys
If your pet skips meals or ignores their favorite chew toy, that’s a big red flag! Since pets instinctively hide pain, changes in eating habits can be one of the first noticeable symptoms of dental issues. If your pet is suddenly more interested in soft foods, their teeth might be bothering them.
Red, Swollen Gums or Yellow Teeth
Time for a quick home exam! Gently lift your pet’s lips – do their gums look bright red or swollen? Are their teeth covered in yellow or brown tartar? These are early signs of gingivitis and potential periodontal disease. Healthy gums should be pink and firm, not red and puffy!
Pawing at the Mouth or Rubbing Their Face
Have you noticed your pet pawing at its mouth or rubbing its face on furniture? This could be a sign of oral discomfort, an abscess, or even a broken tooth. Some pets may even become irritable or aggressive when their mouth hurts – so if your usually sweet furry companion is suddenly snapping, it could be dental pain!
How to Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy (Without a Struggle!)
Taking care of your pet’s teeth doesn’t have to be a battle! With the right approach, you can make dental care a stress-free part of your pet’s routine. Here’s how to keep their smile healthy and bright.
Daily Habits That Make a Difference
Brushing is the gold standard, but let’s be real – it’s not easy! Not sure where to start? Try flavored pet toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush, like this one, to make it more enjoyable. If your pet refuses to cooperate, no worries! Dental chews, water additives, or dental-friendly diets can all help keep plaque at bay.
Products we recommend:
- Dog & Cat Toothbrush: Radius Lush & Plush Pet Toothbrush
- Cat flavored toothpaste: Arm & Hammer Fresh Breath Cat Dental Kit – Tuna
- Dog & Cat flavored toothpaste: C.E.T. Enzymatic Poultry Flavor Dog & Cat Toothpaste
- Dog finger toothbrush: Paw Brothers Finger Toothbrush For Dogs
- Dental chews: WHIMZEES Brushzees
- Water additive: VETRADENT Dog & Cat Dental Water Additive
The Cost of Prevention vs. The Cost of Waiting
Treating severe dental disease can take a big chunk from your savings, while a yearly professional cleaning is far more affordable. Prevention now means more affordable treatments later!
Plus, regular dental care spares your pet from pain and serious health issues. That’s where dental X-rays come in – they’re game-changers! X-rays reveal hidden problems below the gumline, where most dental issues start. Without them, serious issues can go unnoticed and worsen over time.
Scheduling a Professional Cleaning
Just like us, pets need regular dental checkups! Our vet-supervised cleanings include tartar-removing scaling, polishing, and a full check for hidden issues.
Worried about anesthesia? Don’t be! Modern veterinary anesthesia is safe and keeps your pet comfortable during their cleaning.
Our Dental Package covers everything – including basic lab work to catch any issues before anesthesia. Good to know: Pre-anesthetic bloodwork has even uncovered hidden illnesses, saving lives! So, what are you waiting for?
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier, Happier Pet!
Dental health isn’t just about fresh breath – it’s about keeping your pet happy and healthy. Ignoring dental care can lead to chronic pain, organ damage, and expensive treatments. What’s the best way to prevent bigger problems, you’re asking? A quick checkup now can save your pet (and your wallet) in the long run.
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, so there’s no better time to take action! Our team at Continental Animal Wellness Center is ready to help.