Making sure your pet’s teeth are sparkling and clean is crucial. But, it can be overwhelming to navigate all the information out there about proper dental hygiene for pets. At Continental Animal Wellness, we understand the importance of clarity regarding your furry friend’s dental health (it’s our job!). This blog will debunk some common myths and misconceptions about animal dental hygiene and shed light on some important truths to ensure your pet’s smile is happy and healthy.
Dental Hygiene for Dogs
Dental hygiene is important for your pets, and that includes dogs. Like humans, dogs can suffer from tooth decay, injured teeth, and other oral health problems. This can impact their quality of life and sometimes lead to serious health problems. That’s why we make it a point to take good care of our dogs’ teeth!
Myth: Bad Breath is Normal in Dogs
It’s become pretty common for people to expect dogs to have putrid breath. But, it can actually be an indicator of poor dental health. Bad breath can be a sign of oral infection. Because bad breath (or halitosis) is caused by anaerobic bacteria digesting amino acids, it is a telltale sign of gingivitis in dogs. It can also be a symptom of more significant periodontal infections. Regular dental check-ups can help identify and address these issues early on.
Fact: Regular Brushing Can Prevent Dental Problems
Just like humans, dogs benefit greatly from regular brushing. Aim to brush your dog’s teeth daily or at least several times a week using a toothbrush and toothpaste specially formulated for dogs. This simple routine can prevent tartar buildup and reduce the risk of dental diseases!
Myth: Animal Bones are Good for Your Dog’s Teeth
Contrary to popular belief, giving your dog animal bones can pose serious risks to their dental health. Bones can splinter and cause choking, gastrointestinal obstructions, or even dental fractures.
If a large fragment is swallowed, it may become lodged in the esophagus, leading to respiratory issues or in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in inflammation and triggering symptoms like vomiting, decreased appetite, and significant discomfort. In many cases, surgical intervention becomes necessary. A safe bone to chew, from a dental-health perspective, is one that helps cleanse the teeth via chewing but isn’t so hard that it causes a dental fracture (aka, a cracked tooth).
Fact: Dental Chews and Toys Can Be Beneficial
Not all chews are bad, though! Dental chews and toys not only provide entertainment and mental stimulation for your dog but also help maintain their dental health. These products are specifically designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup while strengthening your dog’s gums and jaws. Check out our recommended dental chews and toys for your furry friend!
Dental Hygiene for Cats
Just like dogs, cat dental hygiene is important for your cat’s overall wellness. You probably have an oral hygiene routine for yourself, so why not your cat? Untreated dental issues can cause more problems down the road.
Myth: Cats Don’t Need Dental Care
Many cat owners believe that cats don’t require dental care. If this is you, don’t worry; you’re not alone! We’re here to educate, not wag a finger at you (only tail wags here!). However, dental issues are common among cats, with conditions such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, and tooth resorption affecting their oral health. Regular dental check-ups and preventive care are essential for keeping your cat’s teeth and gums healthy.
Fact: Dental Diets Can Help Maintain Oral Health
Did you know that you can help maintain your cat’s dental health by feeding them certain types of foods? There are specialized dental diets formulated for cats that can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, promote gum health, and freshen your cat’s breath. These diets typically contain ingredients that aid in mechanical plaque removal and inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth. Don’t hesitate to reach out for more of our favorite cat foods that help promote oral health!
Myth: Cats Won’t Tolerate Tooth Brushing
We want first to acknowledge that, yes, this will take some time. But even the sassiest cats can be trained to put up with teeth brushing! While you can’t convince them with logic that it’s worth it for their dental health, you can bribe them with treats and positive reinforcement. Start by introducing your cat to the toothbrush and toothpaste gradually, allowing them to become familiar with the process. Picking a time when your cat is sleepy or relaxed may make them easier to handle.
Our veterinarians at Continental Animal Wellness can provide valuable tips and techniques at your next wellness visit to make tooth brushing a stress-free experience for you and your feline friend.
Fact: Regular Veterinary Check-Ups Are Crucial
Regular dental examinations are essential for maintaining your cat’s oral health. During these check-ups, we can assess your cat’s dental health, perform dental cleanings if necessary, and recommend appropriate treatments or preventive measures.
Dental Hygiene for Horses
Routine dental hygiene checks are important for a number of reasons. For one, the food we are feeding domestic animals is different from what they used to eat. Because they are such large animals, there are not as many preventative procedures owners can do on their own compared to cats and dogs. So, it is important for horse owners to have a dental plan in place for their pets and companions.
Myth: Horses Don’t Require Dental Attention
Contrary to popular belief, horses’ teeth do not naturally wear down evenly and require regular dental attention to maintain optimal oral health. Dental issues such as sharp points, hooks, or uneven wear can lead to discomfort, difficulty eating, and performance problems if left untreated. Sharp edges can cause ulcers along the horse’s cheeks and tongue, so it is important for veterinarians to go in and smooth these irregularities in dental checkups.
Fact: Routine Dental Care is Essential for Equine Health
Routine dental care, including dental examinations and floating, is essential for preventing and addressing dental problems in horses. Floating, which involves filing down sharp edges and correcting irregularities in the teeth, helps ensure proper chewing function and overall well-being.
Myth: Only Older Horses Need Dental Health
Dental health is important for horses of all ages. Young horses may experience dental issues such as retained deciduous teeth or uneven tooth eruption, while older horses are prone to conditions like tooth loss, periodontal disease, and dental abscesses. Regular dental examinations and preventive care are crucial for horses at every stage of life.
Fact: Proper Diet Contributes to Dental Health
A balanced diet plays a significant role in maintaining horses’ dental health. Providing horses with high-quality forage and avoiding diets high in concentrates can help promote dental wear, saliva production, and overall oral health.
Every Pet Needs Dental Hygiene
Proper dental hygiene is essential for the overall health and well-being of our beloved pets; from cats to dogs to horses, every animal needs an oral hygiene routine. By debunking myths and looking at the facts about pet dental care, we can hope to help our furry companions enjoy happy and healthy smiles for years to come!
At Continental Animal Wellness, we’re here to support you in your journey to provide the best possible care for your pet’s teeth. Schedule an appointment with us today, and let’s keep those smiles shining bright!