Your pet needs dental care too – regular, professional care from your veterinarian, as well as care at home from you can help keep your pet healthy and happy. Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets. An astounding 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society.
Oral Disease Can Lead to Other Health Problems
- Bleeding gums
- Tooth loss
- Inflammation and infection of the gums can lead to heart, liver and kidney damage. In an alarming new study, gum disease, which can occur in up to 75 percent of dogs and cats by middle age, has been linked to the occurrence of heart disease.
HOW TO BRUSH YOUR PET’S TEETH AT HOME
STEP 1: Introduce a brushing program to pets gradually. Avoid over-restraining your pet and keep brushing sessions short and positive. A cat or small dog can be held in your lap. Praise and reassure your pet throughout the process.
STEP 2: At first, dip a finger into beef bouillon for dogs or tuna water for cats. Rub the soaked finger gently over the pet’s mouth and teeth. Make the initial sessions short and positive.
STEP 3: Gradually introduce gauze over the finger and gently scrub the teeth in a circular motion.
STEP 4: Finally, you can introduce a soft toothbrush designed for pets. Use a sensitive or ultra-soft brush designed for people or a brush designed for pets. Special pet toothbrushes are available from your veterinarian or specialty pet store. Don’t use toothpaste designed for people because it could upset the animal’s stomach.
Information Source: http://www.oxyfresh.com/news/ha_pet_gum_disease.asp http://www.petdental.com