The month of February is Pet Dental Health Month, which means it’s time for your furry baby’s annual visit with the vet for a dental cleaning. Take advantage of this month to learn more about pet dental services, what affects your cat or dog’s dental health, and how you can help prevent gum disease or tooth decay at home.

The Importance of Pet Dental Care

Centuries of domestication have changed our dog’s mouth shapes and limited natural brushing and flossing resources since your pet no longer relies on hunting live prey for food. As a result, pet owners are often battling bad breath and plaque buildup that results in excessive salivation and other serious health concerns, such as red or swollen gums.

Once plaque accumulates on your pet’s teeth, tarter forms and gets between each tooth and gum line, creating smaller pockets for more food and bacteria. These infections can spread into your pet’s bloodstream, causing lethargy, loss of appetite, and facial swelling in some cases. It’s important to inspect your furry friend’s teeth regularly to avoid these symptoms. 

How to Care for Your Pet’s Teeth at Home

If your pet begins to struggle with dental health, they may be sensitive to having their mouths touched or change their chewing or toy behaviors. If this happens, inspect your pet’s mouth for serious tooth and gum decay and schedule pet dental services right away.

Getting a full cleaning and removing any rotten teeth will help your pet live a more comfortable life. You may have to change their food to accommodate their new oral situation, so ask your vet for dietary suggestions.

To help prevent dental decay and gum disease, provide your pet with dental toys or treats daily. These products can help promote proper oral care and will help your cat or dog maintain healthy gums and teeth.

Look for chew toys with the seal of approval from the Veterinary Oral Health Care Council and brush their teeth at least once a week. This combination of care will help your pet live a long and happy life and can prevent costly pet dental services in the future.

Don’t skip your pet’s dental service this month. Contact the knowledgeable staff at Montgomery Animal Hospital in Cincinnati, OH, for all of your oral care concerns. With more than 40 years of experience and an AAHA accreditation, this veterinary clinic provides high-quality pet care for dogs, cats, rabbits, reptiles, and other exotic animals in the area. Your pet will be in the best of hands for the next oral cleaning, so schedule your appointment by calling (513) 791-7912. You can also visit their Facebook page or website and get to know the vets on staff.