When it comes to brushing their teeth, pets aren’t fussy. They don’t mind if their teeth are shining and beautifully aligned. To maintain their daily routine, pet owners should focus on cleaning them. A mouth that isn’t properly looked after can lead to significant issues. Plaque and cavities can form in pets’ teeth, and gingivitis can infect their gums. Thankfully, pet owners can have their pets’ teeth cleaned at a local veterinarian. They can do this cleaning in your home also.
Proper Care For Your Pet’s Teeth
Brushing our teeth is something we do as humans. Brushing teeth is a crucial part of our everyday routine, and it is also required for our pets. They also have teeth, and like us, need proper oral care. Below’s how to keep your pet’s teeth in good shape.
Dog’s Teeth
If you haven’t done it before, you must first familiarize him with the process. Start by gently massaging their teeth and gums for a few seconds and seeing how they react. Don’t push them and try the next day again if they fuss. After several attempts, they should be more comfortable with your finger in their mouth, and you can go on to a brush. Brushes for dogs come in various shapes and sizes, and if your dog is small, you can practice with a piece of sterile gauze.
There is also dog toothpaste with flavors like chicken or liver. Human toothpaste should never be used. Focus on the back teeth, which are quite big. Don’t mind the inside of their teeth, but pay special attention to the surface of their teeth on the outside. If they don’t like the procedure at first, you can have several teeth done each day. They’ll eventually sit still for the full cleaning, which you’ll be able to complete in a couple of minutes.
Cat’s Teeth
You’ll need to familiarize your cat with the feeling of your finger in their mouth. Start by gently rubbing their teeth and gums daily for a few seconds. There are special brushes for cats, but gauze works equally as well. You can use one of those plastic “finger brushes” made specifically for cats or dogs if the cat’s size allows it.
You shouldn’t be concerned about the inside of their teeth; however, you should pay special attention to the surface of teeth on the outside. Your vet may also suggest a sterile solution, especially for cats.
Mix baking soda and water if you don’t have any other alternatives. Human toothpaste should never be used. Of course, if you start brushing your cat’s teeth when they’re a kitten, the process will be a lot easier, but any cat can be trained with patience and love. If you can’t do it yourself, take them to a vet to clean their teeth. You can visit them here for more information.
Visit a Vet
Your veterinarian will give your pet dental testing during your pet’s annual consultation. They’ll check for swelling and other signs of periodontal disease and/or decay, and they’ll advise on professional cleaning and home care. Professional pet teeth cleaning is more effective than at-home cleaning, similar to the twice-yearly cleanings we people receive. Learn more about pet dental care right here.
While cleaning, your pet will be put under anesthetic and checked. The veterinarian will do a more comprehensive examination before using special tools and equipment to eliminate plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and along the gum line, polish teeth, and apply fluoride. Click this link to find out more about pet health care.
Conclusion
Brushing your pet’s teeth frequently is the most effective way to prevent them from disease and inflammation. Brushing must be done slowly and gently at first. Caressing and patting the pet is a great approach to encourage it. They have to believe it is an enjoyable activity.
