Boost up your pet's lifespan by maintaining Oral Hygiene

                                                  Photo source: Pexels.com

Did you know that February is Pet Dental Health Month? It is the perfect opportunity to take a closer look at your pets (dog, cat, or rabbit) teeth and check for any tartar or inconsistencies. Bad breath is often associated with a pet’s usual characteristic, but that icky odor could be a sign that your pet is dealing with tartar buildup or worse, a cavity.

Nationwide Pet Insurance has reported that “the American Veterinary Medical Association, an organization dedicated to advancing the science and art of veterinary medicine, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by the age of three.” Take a moment and read about some additional facts in an info-graphic created by the company dedicated to protecting your pets.

Periodontal disease is common in dogs and cats and can create some major complications. Poor dental health for our favorite furry loves can lead to the following:

• Gum and dental disease
• Blood infections and heart problems
• Can cause tooth wear and loss affecting good nutrition
• Infections in gums and sinuses
• VERY painful

Just like humans go to the dentist every six months for a bi-yearly cleaning, our pets need to have their teeth examined. You should be taking your pet to see the veterinary once a year for his or her yearly exam. At that time your vet looks inside, conducting an oral assessment. It is still a good idea to become familiar with the inside of your faithful companions mouth so if anything unusual should appear you can address it quickly.

Preventative Care is Easy

Good oral health is achievable. Brushing your pet’s teeth is easy when introduced properly. Watch the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) video that explains how to brush the teeth of your four-legged friend. Providing healthy treats that help to scrape the tartar and clean the teeth is another option mentioned in the video. Keep your pet healthy with good oral hygiene and show off your pet’s healthy pearly whites.

Article Source: Examiner.com by Jessica Miller