Pets Care : Pets need dental care, too - San Antonio Express

Pets need dental care, too - San Antonio Express

Posted: 10 Jul 2012 12:07 PM PDT

Of all the health problems that Dr. Fretorry Rogers typically finds in cats and dogs, dental disease is the most common.

"By around 3 or 4 years old, about 70 to 80 percent of pets start having problems with their teeth. But it's often overlooked," says Rogers, a veterinarian who works with the city's Animal Care Services. "Dental health is an issue that a lot of folks don't take seriously."

That's a mistake, experts say. Neglecting a pet's teeth can lead to the same problems that afflict people, including inflammation and infection of the gums. Periodontal disease can cause tooth loss. Infection under the gum line can even affect the animal's heart and other internal organs.

While dog owners may assume less-than-fresh breath is a necessary evil with canine companionship, it can signal dental problems in both dogs and cats. So can reduced appetite, discolored teeth and bleeding from the gums.

Prevention is key to good oral health in pets. Professional cleanings by veterinarians are pricey; an average dental cleaning can cost $150 or more, Rogers says, and tooth extractions typically cost extra and require general anesthesia.

Vets will typically check teeth as part of a routine visit, but monitor pets' mouths at home by watching for gum redness, tooth discoloration and oral sensitivity

"Your pets are in your face all day anyway," Rogers says. "It only takes a second to raise the lip and look at the gum line."

Here are the ways pet owners can maintain their furry friends' oral health at home.

Brushing. The American Veterinary Dental College recommends regular brushing for dogs and, yes, cats. Use a soft-bristle brush or finger brush and made-for-pets toothpaste - not human toothpaste, which can upset animals' stomachs. Help your pet become accustomed to the process by raising the lips and massaging their gums.

Introduce them to toothpaste by letting them smell and taste it for a week or so, then gradually begin rubbing it on their gums, lips or teeth. Eventually you can introduce the toothbrush, gradually increasing the time you brush. Brush at least once a week, but daily brushing is best.

Toys. Rawhide chews, rubber chew toys and rope toys can help remove plaque from dogs' teeth. Give dogs chews and toys appropriate for their size so they don't present a choking hazard.

Food. Some pet food manufacturers offer foods formulated for dental health. Hard food helps remove plaque from teeth but doesn't replace teeth brushing.

Edible treats. Munching on crunchy dental treats may help remove plaque from cats' and dogs' teeth.

Gels, water additives and sprays. Some anti-plaque liquids are designed to be added to pets' drinking water to help clean their teeth. Oral sprays and gels also are available. Find products endorsed by the Veterinary Oral Health Council at www.vohc.org.

jbelasco@express-news.net

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