February is National Pet Dental Health Month!

February is the month where we focus on the importance of dental health and our pets.  What everyone should realize is that dental disease is more than just a cosmetic issue.  It can also lead to signs of serious oral disease that could, if left untreated, lead to devastating affects on their quality of life.  We are here to provide you some more information about the overall dental health of your furry friend.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats have oral disease by the age of three. It’s one of the most common problems faced by our four-legged family members.  There are some symptoms that raise red flags when it comes to gingivitis and periodontal diseases.  For example, dogs may paw at their faces or mouths frequently, have excessive drool, or even avoid eating harder foods.

Prevention is always the best medicine!  One way that you can take a proactive role in preventing oral disease in your pet is by using an important tool that many pet parents neglect to purchase.  Any ideas?  It’s a toothbrush!  We recommend that you purchase a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your pet’s teeth daily.  This will help remove any food particles and prevent tartar and plaque deposits.  It is very important to only use a toothpaste that is formulated for pets.

Another thing to note is that many dental issues are caused by malnutrition. Be sure that you are working with your veterinarian to come up with a healthy eating plan and schedule professional teeth cleanings when needed.  As you can see, keeping on top of your pet’s dental health has lasting, positive effects. Furthermore, some studies suggest that maintaining oral health can add up to five years to your pet’s life!