At Shorewood Family Dental Care, you’ll only find humans in our treatment chairs! But that doesn’t mean we don’t care about our pets oral health. We strive for healthy gums and teeth for all members of your family, including pets.
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, so it’s a great time to offer some helpful tips for pets’ oral health. Proper dental care can help extend your pet’s lives and reduce bad breath.
These recommendations are applicable for both cats and dogs.
1. Brushing
Just like humans, pets also need their teeth brushed. While you don’t need to keep up a twice daily regimen like you do for yourself, brushing two or three times a week can help fight against dental disease. Make sure to use a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for pets. Human toothpaste can be unsafe for animals.
The American Kennel Club offers a 12-step process to ease your dog into being comfortable with toothbrushing.
Petful provides a 5-step tutorial on how to brush your cat’s teeth.
2. Chew Toys & Treats
Chew toys and treat can help remove plaque from your pets’ teeth in between brushing. Think of them as daily dental care wrapped up in a fun package! Look for toys that are designed to clean teeth and gums such as Kong’s line of dental chew toys. Your cat many need some additional incentive to gnaw on a chew toy. Try the Petstages Dental Health Cat Chew Toys that are filled with catnip.
There are also treat designed to clean pets’ teeth during the chewing process, such as Greenies for both dogs and cats.
3. Regular Checkups
Just like you, your pets need regular health check-ups. Your veterinarian will examine your pet’s oral health during its annual visit, noting the amount of tartar and plaque build-up and condition of teeth.
4. Professional Cleanings
Many veterinarians also recommend professional dental cleanings once per year. The animals are typically sedated, and its vital signs are monitored during the procedure, which includes cleaning and polishing with professional equipment.
Just like your furry loved ones, it’s always time to take care of your family’s oral health. Are you looking for the best dentist for the family to schedule a bi-annual check-up? Call Shorewood Family Dental Care at 815-725-5991 or book an appointment online.
