February is Pet Dental Health Month

February 7th, 2020 by Sebastian Sindermann

February is Pet Dental Health Month

Don’t Neglect this Important Part of Pet Care

We all want the best for our four-legged family members, but how often do we think about pet dental health? Every February, we celebrate National Pet Dental Health Month to spread awareness about this important part of pet care.

Did you know by age three, many dogs and cats already show signs of oral disease? Just like humans, dogs and cats need to take care of their teeth. Learn more about pet dental health and take the next step into becoming the Ultimate Pet Parent!

Good Oral Health, Better Overall Health

A pet’s teeth, if not cared for, can develop plaque leading to excessive tartar buildup which can lead to gum inflammation and tooth loss. Other health problems like kidney, heart, and liver disease have been linked to poor dental health.

Signs of an Unhealthy Mouth

The first sign of an unhealthy mouth is bad breath. The healthy mouth of a pet should include “bubble gum” pink gums, white teeth, and no bad breath. “Doggie” or “Kitty” breath is not normal. It is a sign of poor oral hygiene and needs to be addressed promptly.

Pet Periodontal Disease

Periodontal or “gum disease” is the leading dental problem veterinarians see. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop periodontal disease by the age of 3 years. You can help prevent it by knowing some of the contributing factors:

• Age and Overall Health – In general, older pets are more susceptible and at greater risk for developing periodontal disease.

• Diet, Nutrition & Treats – Soft, mushy foods have been shown to produce more plaque and calculus than dry, hard “kibble size” food.

• Toys and Chewing Habits – Providing the pet with chew toys is beneficial to its oral health and mental health too.

Teeth Brushing is Essential

Home brushing alongside annual visits to the veterinarian for ultrasonic cleaning is your best strategy for good, lifelong pet dental health. Check out our list of essential pet dental health products to start taking an active role in your pet’s dental health:

Taking the First Steps

Congratulations, you’re already taking steps to become the Ultimate Pet Parent. You don’t need to be a pet care professional in order to take an active role in your pet’s oral hygiene.

Remember, don’t ignore stinky pet breath! Learn about pet dental health and more by signing up for a class in Pet CPR, First Aid & Care today!