At Home Dental Care

Dental disease is the most common infectious disease in both dogs and cats. Fortunately, most dental disease can be prevented by regular dental cleanings and daily plaque removal. We have a wide range of products and methods available for use at home to help keep your pet’s mouth clean and disease free. One of the easiest options is to feed your pet a diet specially designed to help fight dental disease. These diets are made with a large kibble size to increase chewing and coarse fibers that rub against the teeth and help “brush” away plaque. This food can be fed as the entire diet or can be used as treats. There are also many treats available that help control plaque buildup. C.E.T. chews for dogs are similar to a rawhide chew but are made with a solution which helps fight bacteria in the mouth. The chews for cats are made with a catfish base and the same solution. There is a wide selection of other dental treats out there so ask your veterinarian for their recommendation. Treats should be given in moderation and should not make up more than 10% of your pet’s diet. Many toys can also help control plaque buildup, including Kong toys, Nylabones, Greenies, and Dentabones. Any toy that encourages chewing but isn’t easily eaten can be part of a good dental health program.

Another option is an oral rinse or gel which are easy to use- just apply between your pet’s cheek and gums. These products quickly cover the entire mouth and have powerful ingredients to remove plaque and fight bacteria. Oxyfresh is a liquid that can be added to the water that your pet drinks every day. It works by decreasing plaque buildup and freshening breath. It doesn’t have a flavor and most pets don’t seem to notice it. The best method for keeping you pet’s mouth clean is daily brushing. Special toothpastes are formulated for pets that can be swallowed and taste good to pets. Be sure to read next week’s article on how to brush your pet’s teeth.