Dental care for cats and dogs
Why do dogs and cats need dental care?
For the same reason that you take care of your own teeth: to prevent disease and for hygienic reasons. One of the most common diseases in pets is periodontitis. Broken teeth, orthodontic problems and even cavities are also common. All of these problems affect your pet and can lead to infections that bring bacteria to other parts of the body. In other words, bad teeth can make an animal sick in the long run.
Do cats and dogs feel the same toothache as we do?
Many owners do not notice any change in the behaviour of their four-legged friend, so they assume that their animal is doing well. This is not surprising. Our pets are descended from wild animals. And a wild animal would not be deterred from eating just because it has aching teeth. So many cats and dogs overlook the complaints and live with the chronic pain. Studies have shown that dogs and cats have pain thresholds that are almost identical to humans.
How often should you look after the teeth of your pet?
The recommended frequency of cleaning your four-legged friend's teeth depends on various factors: Age, genetics, diets, lifestyle and the existence of other health conditions play a major role.
Regardless of signs or symptoms, you should have your cat or dog's teeth checked at least once a year. Even if you regularly check cat's or dog's teeth yourself, symptoms can be overlooked that an experienced veterinarian will immediately recognise. Dental problems detected early on can be remedied much more easily.
By brushing your cat's or dog's teeth daily with specially developed brushes and care products, you can prevent or reduce dental problems. The vet can give you instructions on how to brush your pet's teeth properly.