Dental care is a sadly neglected area of pet wellness. Pets need their teeth cleaned just like people need their teeth cleaned. Ignoring your pet’s dental health leads to periodontal disease, tooth loss, and a higher risk of developing heart disease. Our veterinarians at Sutton Road Animal Hospital in Streamwood have gathered some of the questions that we run into regarding pet dental care.
Isn’t Dry Food Enough to Clean My Pet’s Teeth?
Dry food is good at scraping away some of the plaque that causes periodontal disease, but it cannot get everywhere. This is why you need to talk with your veterinarian about the best ways to get your pet’s teeth clean.
How Common is Periodontal Disease in Pets?
It is estimated that 70 percent of all cats over the age of three suffer from periodontal disease. In dogs, this number rises to 80 percent.
What Are the Symptoms of Bad Teeth in Pets?
Pets show dental problems with foul breath, dropping their food when eating, tilting their heads while eating, and refusing to have their mouths touched. Any one of these signs should be checked by a veterinarian.
How Often Should I Brush My Pet’s Teeth?
For ideal pet wellness, pets should have their teeth brushed every day or at least two times per week.
Can I Use My Toothpaste for My Pet’s Teeth?
Toothpaste made for people contains ingredients that will make your pet very sick. Only use toothpaste designed for pets.
Can I Use Baking Soda for My Pet’s Teeth?
Baking soda will also make your pet very sick.
What Can I Do If My Pet Does Not Let Me Brush His Teeth?
Pets that refuse to have their teeth brushed need professional cleaning by a veterinarian. Pets also may need a professional cleaning if their teeth are in bad shape.
What is Teeth Cleaning by a Veterinarian Like?
Pets need to go under anesthesia to get their teeth professionally cleaned. There have been great advances in veterinary care involving anesthesia, so the risks of going under anesthesia are quite low.
Get Quality Pet Dental Care in Streamwood, IL
If you have concerns about your pet’s dental health and live in or around Streamwood, call our team at Sutton Road Animal Hospital today at (847) 742-8298 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.