In case you didn’t know February is Pet Dental Health Month.
It is the time when we need to remember that our furry friends don’t carry a toothbrush with them and that the health of their mouth can have a significant effect on their general health and wellbeing. A healthy mouth depends on healthy teeth.
Signs of dental disease
80% of dogs and 70% of cats will have some degree of tooth or gum disease over their lifetime. So knowing how to look after your pets teeth and knowing the signs that indicate dental disease are essential.
Some breeds are more prone to dental disease than others. For example nearly 40% of greyhounds will have periodontal disease and nearly one in two Yorkshire terriers will have dental disease from a young age. Small breed or toy breed dogs are much more likely to suffer with periodontal disease than larger breeds.
- Gingivitis is REVERSIBLE inflammation of the gums
- Periodontitis is IRREVERSIBLE destruction of the supporting structure of the teeth and leads to pain and loss of teeth
Early detection of tooth and gum disease will stop problems getting worse with preventative measures.
Animals are very good at masking pain so please check with one of our vets or nurses if you notice the following signs:
- Bad breath- this can indicate a rotten tooth or gingivitis. A build up of tartar and debris on the teeth leads to a build up of bacteria resulting in bad breath (halitosis)
- Reddening or swelling of the gums where they meet the teeth- gingivitis.
- Bleeding gums
- Changes in behaviour- your cat or dog may be showing signs of pain- pawing or rubbing at their mouth, they may be reluctant to allow their mouth to be examined or may be reluctant or have difficulty eating. Your pet may be less lively, less sociable and have a reduced interest in playing.
Canine or Feline Oral Health Checklist
Start them young if possible. It is much easier to get a puppy or kitten with a healthy mouth into a routine than trying to brush the teeth of an older animal with existing gum or tooth disease.
- Check gums- these should be a nice healthy pale pink with no bleeding or discharge.
- Check for build up of plaque and tartar on the surface of the teeth
- Regular checks with the vet or nurse to make a note of what is “normal” for your pet. This is usually part of any clinical examination when your pet visits the surgery.
- Any discolouration of the teeth.
Prevention of dental disease
- A good diet is essential for good oral health. A balanced diet to which can be added some dental chews.
- Regular brushing of teeth- using a soft brush and also a toothpaste formulated for pets. These pet toothpastes, unlike human toothpastes, contain very little fluoride and are usually meat flavoured to make them more palatable.
- Supplements such as Plaque Off can help to reduce the amount of tartar build up in dogs.
- Enzyme toothpastes such as Logic can help with the oral hygiene regime.
Our Offer to You
For February, in conjunction with Pet Dental Health Month, Uckfield Vets have decided to offer a 15% discount on all dental work done in February for both cats and dogs!
You would need to call and book it via our reception and would be subject to availability. Please call us on 01825 764268 to find out availability.
