May 2, 2020, 6:14 PM
As veterinary dentists, we all know of the importance of dental health and the role it plays in pet's overall well-being. It is estimated that more than 70% of cats and 80% of dogs show signs of periodontal disease by the age of 3. Even though foul breath is one of the early symptoms of dental disease, it is often overlooked as owners consider it as just something their pets happen to have. Periodontal disease can give rise to serious health issues in animals if they are not diagnosed and treated in time.
The term "dental disease" is commonly used to describe a broad range of disorders seen within the mouth, teeth, and gums. Of these, conditions such as gingivitis, and periodontal diseases, require immediate attention to avoid any life-threatening complications. While periodic check-ups with a veterinarian are mandatory, pet owners should also ensure that they have the necessary preventative measures in place to prevent such conditions from developing in the first place. In this write-up, we list five practical tips that veterinarians can provide their clients to help keep their pet's breath fresh and their teeth clean.
Regular Brushing is Important
In much of the say way as you take care of your own, pet owners should make it a habit to brush their pets' teeth regularly. While it is an activity that is easier to take up while they are young, even adult dogs and cats will also get used to it over time. Not only does brushing help in keeping the teeth and gums healthier, but it also prevents the build-up of plaque and tartar, which, if allowed to accumulate, can lead to conditions such as gingivitis.
Chew Toys
Chew toys a great way to keep your pets engaged and, at the same time, hinder the progression of any underlying oral disease. The action of chewing stimulates the animal's body to produce additional saliva, which will help in clearing away food debris and bacteria from its teeth and gums. When it comes to choosing a good toy, it can be challenging to decide what is right for your pet. A good chew toy is something that is malleable, soft, and big enough so that it cannot be swallowed as a whole.
Dental Diet
A well-formulated dental diet can have a positive impact on your pet's oral health hygiene. There are, in fact, pet formulations available that can help in minimizing plaque and tartar build-up. For instance, dried and treats made into larger pellets or those with a surface that withstands crumbling creates a scrubbing movement against the teeth as it chews. Also, treats coated with substances such as polyphosphate has been proven to be effective in tackling bacteria formation.
Regular Teeth Cleaning
As mentioned previously, pet owners should make it a habit to take their pets to a veterinary clinic and get their pets subjected to professional dental care and cleaning. Apart from brushing or removing tartar off the teeth, regular cleaning includes activities such as scaling, probing, and polishing. Ensure that your dental clinic has the required veterinary dental equipment to service your pets' needs without any fail.
Dental X-Rays
Unlike humans, pets cannot outright convey that they are in pain. In some instances, dental X-rays are the only way by which veterinarians can understand whether the animal is suffering from a severe oral problem or not. By clearly understanding the reason for your pet's discomfort, you can significantly improve overall health and its quality of life.
Conclusion
While choosing a veterinary product or equipment to address your pet's dental requirements, be sure to make your choice from a trusted brand such as iM3. At Eurovets, we specialize in providing veterinary equipment in Dubai and are proud to be recognized as the official iM3 distributor in the region.