Dental Disease
Posted on 04 April 2012
- Dental disease has been linked to heart disease and kidney disease as well as causing ongoing pain and discomfort in our pets.
- Tartar, plaque, gingivitis and bad breath are all factors commonly seen in dogs and cats with dental disease.
- The reasons for poor dental health are varied but include poor diet (particularly those that are based soley on soft foods), underlying disease and hereditary conditions e.g. malocculsion and overcrowding.
- Your animals teeth should be checked at least once a year by your vet. Treatment is best instigated early to keep teeth and gums as healthy as possible.
- Maintain a healthy mouth and teeth by feeding diets which encourage chewing e.g. raw meaty bones, dry biscuits and prescription dental diets. Brushing is also a great way to prevent dental disease – a wide range of pet specific toothbrushes, toothpastes and other products are available.