You wouldn’t dream of skipping out on an annual dental exam for yourself or your children. But what about one for your pet?
At Bristol Veterinary Hospital, we encourage all pet owners to schedule annual dental appointments for their feline and canine companions. If left untreated, poor dental health can lead to dental disease or serious heart and lung issues. Here are a few things you need to know about taking care of your cat or dog’s teeth.
Best Benefits of Veterinary Dental Cleanings
We often advise our patients to have their pets undergo annual veterinary dental cleanings. There are numerous benefits to this process, which is relatively painless and takes only a short period of time. Some of the most common include:
- Iproved breath fragrance
- Stronger and healthier teeth
- Reduction in tartar buildup
- Decreased risk of gum disease
- Lower risk of other health issues later in life
Symptoms of Dental Disease in Cats and Dogs
While some problems are often a bit more subtle, most signs of dental disease in cats and dogs are usually pretty apparent and are easily spotted by most caring pet parents. A few of the most common symptoms of dental diseas include:
- Discolored teeth
- Bleeding or evidence of old blood
- Buildup of tartar
- Mouth sensitivity
- Trouble eating or chewing
- Broken or loose teeth
- Loss of appetite
- Swelling
- Abnormal chewing
Many pet owners also report that their dog or cat is no longer interested in certain toys or chew treats. This is often caused by untreated pain, which is another classic symptom of a dental disease or other issue. If you notice your pet exhibiting any of the above signs, please call our office immediately to schedule an appointment.
Pet Dental Care Starts at Home
Know the old saying about an ounce of prevention being worth more than a cure? While dental cleanings and screenings are important, the truth is that pet dental care starts at home. From a young age, it is important to regularly brush your cat or dog’s mouth weekly to prevent issues from starting. However, even older pets can get used to the process in a relatively short period of time. There are a variety of different products on the market to make this a painless and simple process.
Are you ready to schedule your pet’s annual dental cleaning appointment? Call us today at (603) 744-5804.
