February is National Pet Dental Health Month

Did you know that dental disease is one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions in cats and dogs?  85% of dogs and nearly 70% of cats have some form of dental disease by the age of three.   The issue of dental health in pets is often overlooked by pet owners as being unnecessary.  Unfortunately, many pets have their teeth neglected until there is severe periodontal disease present, which is usually accompanied by pain and discomfort.  It is important to care for your pet’s teeth throughout its lifetime to prevent significant disease. Luckily, dental disease is easy to prevent.

The best thing you can do for your pets teeth is to brush them on a daily basis.  There are many products available on the market to accomplish this including toothbrushes that fit over your fingertip and flavored toothpastes.  Some pets love having their teeth brushed while others need to adjust to having their mouth handled.  If your pet does not accept you brushing their teeth, don’t worry.  With dedication and patience there are very few pets that will not allow their owner to brush their teeth.

There are also water additives, gels, wipes, and treats available to promote good dental health in our pets.  If you are confused about what type of dental product to purchase, consult your veterinarian or look for the Veterinary Oral Health Counsel (VOHC) seal.  Products that carry this seal have undergone testing and have been proven to be effective at reducing plaque and tartar buildup. The products can be found at http://www.vohc.org/accepted_products.htm. 

Please don’t wait until your dog or cat has bad breath or loose teeth before you care for their teeth.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me on my website at www.zutillavet.com/contact-us.html