You snuggle up to give your dog or cat a hug when suddenly it opens wide its mouth and you draw back in horror from the emanating odour. Sound familiar? If so, then it’s time for a serious review your pet’s routine for oral hygiene. Poor dental care can lead to rotted teeth and diseased gums, eventually making it painful for your pet to chew and eat. So prevention will not only keep your pet healthy, but it’s also an effective preventative measure that can save you lots of money in future veterinary expenses.
First, make a visual inspection of your pet’s gums and teeth. Sit down and make sure your pet is calm and relaxed. Then, gently lift the sides of its mouth from front to back. You may see white, yellow or brownish matter which is usually plaque and tartar.
To remove the initial build-up, start a strict six week cleaning program using a pet dental care product. These are available in pastes, sprays, gels, powders and foams. If you use a product that requires no brushing, then it’s best to withhold food and water for 30 minutes before and after applying the product. For finicky pets, try a flavoured formulation.
In most cases after the initial six week program, you should be able to reduce the cleaning to once a week ongoing maintenance. Water additives or dental chews and biscuits can also help freshen breath and keep mouths clean.
With a good routine of preventative dental care, you can keep your pet’s mouth fresh and healthy.
Global Pet Foods in Keswick is your source for top quality foods, supplements and accessories to keep your pet healthy and happy. Call 905-476-0575 or visit www.globalpetfoods.ca.