Just like humans, dogs and cats have teeth made of hard enamel with soft tissue at the center. Along with routine checkups, exercise, and grooming, pet dental care is essential to keeping your animal healthy. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pet’s teeth in top condition.

3 Ways to Care for Your Pet’s Teeth

1. Get Professional Routine Cleaning

At your their regular wellness exams, ask your vet to look at and clean your pet’s teeth. These professional cleanings should happen every six months to a year for dogs, and about once a year for cats. During this process, your vet can point out any problem areas and give you recommendations for pet dental care at home.

2. Brush at Home

Your dog’s dental health will benefit from brushing as often as once a day. For cats, three times a week is the minimum. Use a specially designed dog or cat toothbrush and correctly formulated toothpaste. Human toothpaste is toxic to animals, so be sure you don’t use it to brush your pet’s teeth. With practice, your dog or cat will get used to the routine of gently lifting their lips and brushing plaque off their teeth.

3. Buy Teeth-Cleaning Toys

Dogs love to chew, so get them something to gnaw on that’ll clean their teeth in the process, like dental chews, bones, or a bully stick. Special treats with tooth-cleaning textures are available for both cats and dogs, as are dental sprays and water additives, which keeps them healthy and reduces odorous breath. If you’re uncertain about what to get, ask your veterinarian for recommendations on tooth-friendly toys, treats, and food.

For professional pet dental care and help with your animal’s home hygiene routine, visit Pet Center Ltd. in Columbia, MO. For over 35 years, these expert veterinarians have been providing cats and dogs with wellness checkups, major surgeries, parasite prevention, vaccinations, pain management, senior care, and microchipping. To schedule an appointment, call (573) 445-3000 or send a message online.