Brush Those Canines! (And Felines!)
Do you ever wonder if your pet has bad breath? Have you ever noticed a bad smell coming from their mouth or sensed that they seemed uncomfortable when eating or drinking? If so, this means your pet might have some dental issues, and it’s time to take action. Dental problems are extremely common in both dogs and cats, and can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and other severe health problems if left untreated. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent this from happening—and one of them is brushing your pet’s teeth!
Why you should brush your pet's teeth
Pet dental health is important because it increases your pet's lifespan and decreases their chance of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Brushing your pet's teeth can be very easy and beneficial to their dental health. Not only will you help keep them healthy, but they will also likely enjoy having their teeth brushed. Pet's that are used to getting a routine brushing are usually easier to handle during their cleanings at your vet.
The importance of tartar control
Pet dental care isn’t just about fresh breath and clean teeth. Tartar build-up can eventually lead to serious health issues, including heart problems, kidney disease, and gum disease. Brushing your pets teeth is one way to combat tartar buildup, which ultimately helps keep their bodies in tip-top shape. Because who doesn’t want a happy and healthy pet?
How often you should brush
The American Veterinary Dental Society recommends brushing your pets teeth on a daily basis, just like you would your own. Most pet owners, however, only brush their pets teeth once or twice a week - they should be brushed twice a day! Start slowly and make sure to get your pet used to having their teeth brushed before you try every day. Most dogs and cats will quickly get over any trepidation towards toothbrushes as long as you are gentle and work them into it slowly.
Super easy tips on how to brush them
Getting your pets used to having their teeth brushed is a great first step toward ensuring good dental health. However, some animals are more sensitive than others, so it's important to be gentle and keep things positive. Try petting your dog or cat for several minutes before you begin brushing, and don't forget to use treats as rewards! Dogs love dental chews that help prevent tartar buildup between cleanings. If you can't brush them yourself, talk with your vet about having a professional do it during a checkup! Regularly brushing pets' teeth can improve their overall dental health, reduce bad breath and save them from expensive veterinary bills later on. Make today #PetDentalHealthMonth by taking steps toward better oral hygiene for all our furry friends!