Dental disease is common in both cats and dogs and is the number 1 oral health problem seen by vets
It occurs when bacteria, plaque and tatar build up on your cat or dog's teeth and can result in bad breath, bleeding gums, tooth loss and in severe cases, can lead to damage of the heart, kidneys and other internal organs.

What Causes Dental Disease?
  Dental Disease occurs so commonly in our domesticated pets simply because the foods they eat do not adequately clean their teeth or remove food and bacteria build up. This build up of bacteria and food results in plaque, which then calcifies into tatar, building up on the teeth and under the gums causing gum disease, also known as gingivitis.

What are the Signs of Dental Disease?
  * Bad breath
  * Yellowing-brown teeth
  * Red, swollen or tender gums
  * Receding gums
  * Bleeding gums
  * Mouth pain
  * Tooth loss
  * Change in eating/chewing habits
  * Pawing at face or mouth
  * Depression

How Can You Prevent Dental Disease?
 Regularly checking your pets mouth for any of the above signs is important. Should you notice any of the mentioned symptoms then it may be time to see your veterinarian for a dental check up. The vet will examine your pets mouth and will recommend a suitable treatment.
 In some cases, the vet may advise that your pet requires a dental procedure. These are performed under anaesthesia and allow the vet to ultrasonically scale the teeth, extract any rotton teeth, and finally polish the teeth.

 You can alsol maintain your pet's dental health at home. Regularly brushing your pets teeth with a special pet-safe toothpaste can help reduce the build up of plaque. Starting your cat or dog from an early age means they will be used to the feeling, however they are never too old to start!
  Feeding certain foods to your pet can also greatly improve their dental health. Raw bones are great for chewing on and are also a great treat. Fresh, raw bones are best. Marrow bones and knuckle bones are great for dogs, however it is important to remember to throw the bone away after a couple of days and replace it with a fresh one.
  For cats and smaller dogs, chicken wings and necks are also great for teeth. Some cats may prefer their wings slightly warmed under a grill, but it is important to ensure they do not cook.
  Hills Prescription Diet T/D has been specifically designed to help reduce the accumulation of plaque on the teeth. Hills Oral Care is recommended for pets following a dental scale and polish to help keep your pets teeth clean.

For more information or to schedule a dental check-up for your pet, call us on 9428 1174.