Our dentist cares for human teeth and gums, but we also know that pet dental care is vitally important. If you have cats or dogs, then caring for the animal’s teeth can keep your pets healthier and prolong their lives. Here are some of the ways to make sure that your beloved pets have healthier mouths.
Way 1: Select a Safe Toothpaste for Pets
Visit a nearby or online pet store to buy the right type of toothpaste for dogs or cats. Read the description of the product carefully to choose a product that is appropriate for your pet’s needs. Don’t try to use toothpaste that is formulated for humans because the product may have ingredients that will irritate your pet’s gums or that can cause digestive issues.
Way 2: Brushing a Pet’s Teeth
While buying toothpaste for your dog or cat, you should also select a toothbrush. These are available in different sizes and styles to fit into an animal’s mouth. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush that is designed for humans, but it may not last as long as a pet toothbrush will.
Way 3: Provide Chew Toys
Give your pet chew toys to help with the cleaning of the teeth, and these items can also keep a cat or a dog from chewing on other objects in your home. Puppies and kittens need chew toys to cope with the eruption of teeth so that the animals feel more comfortable during the process.
Way 4: A Healthy Diet
Your pets require a healthy diet to have stronger teeth and gums that are in good condition. To protect an animal’s teeth, don’t give it human foods that can damage the dental enamel or that will irritate the sensitive gum tissue. If your pet has dental health issues, you may need to buy food that is formulated for these problems.
Way 5: Keep a Pet Hydrated
Make sure that your pets have access to water at all times. You can have multiple water bowls in your home or outside your home, but you can also find water dispensers that will fill the water bowl frequently while you are away from home.
Way 6: Inspect Your Pet’s Mouth
Inspect your pet’s mouth at least once a week to find any abnormalities. If a dog or a cat has red or swollen gums, then the animal needs attention from a professional right away. When a pet has a broken or dislocated tooth, take the animal in for emergency care to avoid having a major infection in the mouth.
Way 7: Veterinarian Care
At Mountain View Dental in Pleasant View, Utah, we have a professional and comfortable dental office, but we don’t offer pet dental care services. However, there are fantastic veterinarians in the area who can offer the appropriate pet dental care treatments for your dogs and cats. Make sure to call us to schedule an appointment for dental checkups for you and your children.