Why You Should Not Ignore Your Pet’s Dental Care

Your pet is an important part of your family. And just like a child, you want to make sure that your pet is in optimal health. Most pet owners are very responsible, making sure that their pet gets routine exams, checkups, and vaccinations to keep them healthy. You will also often take your pet to the vet when they are feeling under the weather. 

But an important part of your pet’s health that is often ignored is their dental health. Just as people need to care for their teeth, so do animals. In the wild, animals keep their teeth strong and healthy by cleaning them naturally with what is available. But domesticated animals don’t have the same resources or instincts; and, therefore, they need some additional dental care.

It is important that you make sure you are doing something to clean your pet’s teeth on a regular basis. There are many products out there that are formulated as treats so that pets will eat them, but are actually designed to clean teeth and freshen breath. If your pet gets into foods that they shouldn’t, you might also want to clean their mouths with a toothbrush designed for your pet.

Your pet should also have regular dental cleanings and checkups with your vet. You can have your pet’s dental health checked during their normal veterinary checkup or when they get their vaccination boosters. Your vet is best able to thoroughly clean your pet’s teeth and look for issues such as cavities or loose teeth.

It is important to follow these guidelines for your pet’s dental health because it also affects their overall health. If your pet loses teeth or has dental pain that you cannot detect, it can affect their diet. They may eat less or have to switch to softer foods that may not be as nutritious. 

If your pet hasn’t had a recent dental checkup and cleaning, contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.