Why Dental Health Matters for Pets

Morning breath, little bits of lunch stuck in between teeth, too much garlic bread for dinner, and the sugary coating that sticks on your teeth after dessert are all a call to brush your teeth. Gingivitis, bad breath, and plaque are afflictions that we usually only associate with humans. But dental hygiene is important for their pets too! Dogs and cats may need some help fighting bad breath and plaque. Preventing plaque, tooth decay, and pain is primarily up to pet parents. Our four-legged friends can’t pick up a toothbrush and have at it. Their only defense against all these nasty things is if their owner lends a helping hand.

So how in the world do you begin brushing your pet’s teeth? What products do you use? Can you use toothpaste for humans? Are their doggy dentists? These are all reasonable questions that have simple answers.

How do I get my cat or dog to let me brush their teeth?

Exposing your pet early to the idea of you brushing their teeth can help avoid problems later. Not that old dogs and cats can’t learn new tricks, but sometimes introducing new grooming rituals once they are already set becomes tricky. When introducing grooming rituals, like trimming nails, brushing hair, and cleaning ears, it is always best to start right away. Even if you adopt an older lady or fellow, getting them into a new routine should start early.

But how do you get my pet to sit still long enough for me to brush their chompers? Ceasar Milan’s website says to get your furry friend good and tuckered out before you attempt to brush their teeth. Getting your cat or dog to sit still long enough to brush their teeth is tricky, so doing it after they calm down from play or during usual down time may be helpful.

What products can I use, and which should I stay away from?

There are specially formulated dog and cat toothpastes on the market that if you choose to brush their teeth you should use. These products do not contain fluoride which is extremely toxic to both cats and dogs. This means that you should never, by any means, use human toothpaste to brush your pet’s teeth. Toothpaste formulated for cats and dogs ranges in favors from vanilla and chicken to beef and peanut butter. These flavors are more appealing and obviously much safer for our pets.

Are their doggy and kitty dentists?

There are not doggy dentists out there, however asking your vet to check out your pet’s pearly whites is a great idea. Usually part of your pets check up includes a dental check. Vets will look for broken teeth, plaque build up, and any other dental related maladies that don’t check out.

How often should I brush my cat or dog’s teeth?

Brushing your pet’s teeth is usually something that is a personal choice or needed because of health reasons. Pet MD recommends brushing your pets teeth at least three times a week.

What are the benefits of brushing my pet’s teeth?

The benefits of brushing your pet’s teeth are the same as they are for humans. Plaque, disease, and decay can all be prevented or treated by brushing. This can also cut down on stinky breath and can improve the over all health and quality of life for your pet.