| Dog and Cat Dental Care |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-203 |
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Lots of people have heard they should take care of their dog or cat's teeth, but are uncomfortable with the idea, say Ask DIY Pet Care experts Stephanie Zielinski and Joel Tatum. Below, the veterinary duo answer five of the most common queries about dental hygiene for pets. Q: What are the signs my pet has dental problems? A: Look for the same things in a pet that you would in a human -- yellow teeth, foul breath or any kind of red or swollen gums. Open your dog or cat's mouth and make sure his teeth and gums look healthy. If not, take your pet to the veterinarian right away. Poor oral care can lead to all kinds of serious health problems. Bacteria from dental disease can spread to the liver, kidneys and even the heart. Q: How do I brush my dog's teeth? A: The secret is to do this very slowly and carefully over a period of time. Start out by rubbing a bit of beef bullion over the dog's teeth and gums with your finger to get her used to the idea of your fingers in her mouth. After your dog gets used to that, try wrapping your finger in a square of gauze, dipping the gauze in the bullion, and rubbing your dog's teeth with the gauze. Once she's used to that, start getting her used to one of the dog tooth brushes that slip right over your finger. Put a dab of pet toothpaste on the end of the brush (which is also the tip of your finger) and rub it over your dog's teeth (figure A). Q: How do I brush my cat's teeth? A: The key to brushing your cat's teeth is to make it a calm, short and sweet experience. Condition your cat to the toothbrush the same way you would a dog, only use tuna juice to get him used to having your finger in his mouth. It might take a couple of months until the cat is comfortable enough for the pet toothbrush. You really want to brush your pet's teeth daily. But if you can only get to it a couple of times a week, you can still make a big difference in your pet's life. Q: Can I use my human toothpaste on my pet? A: The answer, unfortunately, is no. Your toothpaste will upset your pet's stomach. But there are lots of toothpaste brands on the market made especially for pets. Q: Are there any foods or toys that will help my pet's teeth? A: Yes. There are a few things that will help keep your pet's smile bright. You can give your cat or dog raw carrots. Or smear pet toothpaste on a chew toy, such as a rubber bone that has some grooves on it. When your dog chews, the action will simulate a toothbrush. There are also a lot of foods and treats on the market specifically designed to fight plaque. None of these products are a substitute for brushing your pet's teeth regularly, however, and the best dental care measure is an annual veterinary visit. Web site resources for Dog and Cat Dental Care: Preventive Care: Pet Dental Care is Important from Healthy Pet.Com Give Your Pet Something to Smile About! From Pets Choice.Com Book: Healthcare of the Well Pet
by Carolina Jevring
ISBN: 0702023930
W.B. Saunders Company
11830 Westline Industrial Dr.
St. Louis, MO 63146-9988
Phone: 800-545-2522
Fax: 800-568-5136
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