Why Is Dental Care Important for Pets?
As an adult, you understand the importance of daily dental care. That’s why we’re taught to brush our teeth several times a day from the time we’re children. And while some of us may fail to hit the “several times a day” mark, we certainly make sure to brush our teeth twice daily. Dental care is that important. The same is true for your dog or cat.
In the days before people lured dogs and cats out of nature and onto their comfiest furniture, these wild animals used the bones of their prey to clean their teeth. Today, the small animal diet of most dogs and cats has been replaced with a regimen of canned food and dry food. These foods may be healthy, but they do little in the way of cleaning your dog’s teeth. As a result, it’s essential to make sure you’re getting your dog or cat the best in dental care from a trusted animal hospital in Saint Francisville, LA.
How common are dental problems?
A lot of well-meaning pet owners downplay the importance of dental care because they don’t see the point. That’s why dental disease is one of the most common afflictions found in domesticated dogs and cats. By the time they’re three years old, more than 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of dental problems.
The health issues caused by dental disease and oral health difficulties go far beyond the obvious, too.
Who cares if my pet’s breath stinks?
Those people who overlook the importance of dental health likely believe the only real result of not keeping a dog’s teeth clean is bad breath. That is far from the case. In fact, some of the worst outcomes of advanced dental disease may have you rushing toward the emergency room at your local animal hospital in Saint Francisville, LA.
Untreated dental disease can lead to a massive variety of problems, including depression, poor grooming habits, excessive salivation, facial swelling, loose or missing teeth, loss of appetite and—in the worst cases—heart, lung and kidney disease.
Prevention is the key
Far and away, the safest method for preventing dental disease in your animal is to engage in a routine of prevention. Daily or semi-daily toothbrushing is the absolute best thing you can do for your dogs or cats. If your pet is finicky about having their teeth brushed, you can try giving them special treats designed to clean their teeth and gums. There are supplements you can add to their food or water that promote dental health, as well.
For more information, talk to your local animal healthcare provider.
The pet care pros
Need some help with pet dental health? Come to St. Francisville Animal Hospital, where we’re more than just the best animal hospital in Saint Francisville, LA—we’re your trusted advisor on all things pet related. Beyond dental health, we offer a huge array of veterinary services, plus grooming and boarding for our cherished clients. Making sure that you and your beloved pet are satisfied is our top priority.
Pick up the phone today and discover the difference St. Francisville Animal Hospital can make. You won’t be disappointed!
Categorised in: Dental Care