Just like humans, pets such as dogs and cats also need to take care of their dental health.
We can do this by routinely brushing the baby's teeth to avoid various problems.
For example cavities to chronic inflammation and periodontal (gum) disease associated with heart, kidney and liver disease in dogs and cats.
However, how do you start and get used to brushing your pet ‘s teeth ?
To find out, see the following tips from a vet at Pumpkin Pet Insurance, Mondrian Contreras, DVM.
Make brushing your teeth a habit
Although Contreras says that the best time to get used to it is when our pet is still in its infancy, it's never too late.
For that, keep your toothbrush and toothpaste in an easy-to-reach place and start doing it at the same time every day so that it becomes a habit.
And most importantly, we need to make brushing our teeth a positive experience, not a scary one.
So, start slowly introducing a special pet toothbrush and toothpaste to your “nabula”, starting with brushing only the front teeth.
Once the pet is comfortable with it, move on to the back teeth.
Then, end brushing with something he really enjoys, like playing with his favorite toy or giving him a treat.
Don't miss routine dental check-ups
Regular visits to the dentist are not only important for monitoring the development of the animal's physical health, but also the health of its teeth.
“Discussions about animal dental health should be done once a year with a dentist,” said Contreras, as quoted by Daily Paws.
So when consulting, just tell the doctor all the problems and concerns related to animal teeth, so that the doctor can check and address the source of the problem before it gets worse.
Monitor pet teeth at home
cat‘s teeth.” width=”750″ height=”500″ /> Illustration of brushing cat's teeth.
As the owner, it is of course our responsibility to monitor their health and behavior and to take them to the vet if they see anything wrong.
So, start a grooming routine where we can check for any changes, whether in body shape, lumps, or a particular smell.
Contreras also says bad breath is usually the first sign our furry friends have oral disease and should be taken to the doctor immediately.
Prepare for the cost of having your teeth cleaned professionally
Even though we always brush our children‘s teeth at home regularly, of course that cannot replace professional dental examinations and cleanings.
For that, don't forget to set aside a fee for routine control at the vet.
The reason is when it is cleaned professionally, the vet requires anesthesia which is certainly not cheap.
Don't rely on dental chews
According to Contreras, actually eating snacks or foods that are claimed to be healthy for teeth and mouth such as dental chews will not be able to replace a doctor's examination.
So if a dog or cat likes treats, we can give treats every once in a while.
