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Don’t neglect your pet’s dental health — talk to your veterinarian
By Pet Connection Staff
February 4, 2010
Our Dr. Becker provided “Good Morning America” with this Web exclusive overview on pet dental care, including a video on how to brush those teeth at home:
One of the most overlooked aspects of care for dogs and cats is dental health — and it’s not just about ending bad breath or getting a prettier smile on your pet. Dental disease in cats and dogs is a serious health problem that causes them pain, puts strain on their internal organs and shortens their lives.
[...]
[I]t’s easy to change your pet’s dental destiny. Veterinarians now recommend brushing your pet’s teeth daily to prevent problems. It’s not difficult to teach pets to accept this daily regimen, as long as you start slowly and use positive reinforcement as your pet learns to accept first your handling of his mouth, the introduction of brush and paste and finally a full daily brushing. Take your time, and let your pet be your guide as to how quickly to proceed with your training. Puppies and kittens learn to accept brushing quickly, but even adult pets can learn if you’re patient, positive and persistent. Pet toothpastes don’t foam up like human toothpastes (designed for humans who like action inside the mouth as they brush). Use a tasty toothpaste meant for pets: Not only is it in a pet-friendly flavor like salmon, poultry or beef, but it’s also designed to be swallowed. Unlike people, pets can’t rinse and spit.
Here’s the rest. And here’s the video:
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I had my cat’s teeth cleaned last month; my vet has a steller reputation, so I believed him when he said it was necessary, but I still did some research and I was stunned at all the health issues that come up from neglected teeth and gums.
Thanks for the post.
Comment by Kimberly — February 4, 2010 @ 2:33 pm
Just had my eldest pet’s teeth cleaned yesterday along with the removal of a fatty tumor on her backside. Actually the odor was coming from one of her tonsils rather than plaque on her teeth.
Comment by VJ — February 5, 2010 @ 5:04 pm
I had Drew’s teeth done by my veterinarian a week ago, the under-anesthesia finale of Drewbie’s very thorough semi-annual senior wellness check. The Drewbinator is 12 and has had great care since he came to me eight years ago after a series (!) of homes. He had one small tooth removed, and that was that. He has all the other teeth he came with!
Antibiotics and pain meds before and after. He’s feeling great now, I can tell. I love that little guy. He’s a riot.
Comment by Gina Spadafori — February 5, 2010 @ 5:09 pm
My 12 year old GSD goes in on Wednesday to have a cracked upper molar removed. He’s on antibiotics and pain meds now and will continue to be for a few days post-surgery. He also has a fatty tumor that the vet may or may not remove, and of course she’ll give him a thorough once-over while he’s anesthetized.
I know it’s all a good thing, and I’ve been through this before with other dogs, but I’m still a tad bit nervous. It is comforting to know your oldsters faired well with their procedures. Fingers crossed!
Comment by Rori — February 5, 2010 @ 6:28 pm
My mom just had her knee replaced at 76. Changed her life for the better.
A professor of vet med who specializes in anesthesiology told me something I’ve never forgotten: It’s not fair to an older pet not to treat their problems JUST because they’re older. We can minimize risk in anesthesia a great deal, and in so doing offer our older pets procedures that will VASTLY improve their quality of life.
Here’s the article that came from that interview, with tips on discussing anesthesia with your veterinarian.
Comment by Gina Spadafori — February 5, 2010 @ 6:55 pm
Thanks for pointing me to your anesthesia article, Gina. I feel less nervous after having read it. I still think I’ll have to self-medicate with mass amounts of chocolate the day of the procedure, however; separation anxiety and all. :)
Comment by Rori — February 5, 2010 @ 7:43 pm