ANIMAL COMPANIONS
Dental care vital to a healthier and happier life for your pets
Hawaiian Humane Society
The evolution of health care in humans has brought an increased awareness of the importance of good preventative care. That same attention to wellness does well for companion animals, too. This week, we look at preventative dental care for your pet.
Hawaiian Humane Society photo
The bacteria that lurk in your pet's mouth can cause health concerns more serious than bad breath or even tooth loss, which is why the American Veterinary Medical Association has designated February as National Pet Dental Health Month, highlighting the importance of regular dental care for pets.
Be patient — it will take time for your pet to get accustomed to having its teeth brushed, but it may save its life.
An infection caused by periodontal disease may enter the bloodstream, with potential for infecting the heart, liver and kidneys. Eighty percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society. In fact, oral disease is the most common health problem treated in small animal clinics today, according to the society.
"Caring for your pet's teeth is not silly or vain," said Eric Ako, a veterinarian at The Pet Doctor in Honolulu. "Neglected mouths harbor harmful bacteria that can eat away at gums and the jawbone, and shower infection on major organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys. As the caretaker for your animal, you are responsible for preventing this infection. ... Our pets can't brush their own teeth, but we can do it for them."
Sue Sylvester-Palumbo, a veterinarian at The Cat Clinic, also believes such an approach can help companion animals live longer, healthier lives. "Take a good look inside your pet's mouth," said Sylvester-Palumbo. "If you see inflammation of the gums, it's time to visit your veterinarian."
She added: "Every time your pet chews, a stream of bacteria from the periodontal infection enters the bloodstream. Major organs such as the liver, lungs, kidneys and heart can be adversely affected."
Symptoms of oral disease
Yellow and brown tartar
buildup along the gum line
Red, inflamed gums
Persistent bad breath
Why is oral disease in pets so common?
Animals can't brush their own teeth
"Dog breath" is accepted as normal.
Pet foods leave a sticky film on teeth.
Few people brush their pets' teeth.
What to do?
Crunchy foods and treats can't remove plaque below the gum line.
"Only brushing removes plaque at the gum line," Sylvester-Palumbo said. "Pet toothpastes are safe for them to swallow. It may take a while for them to get used to brushing, but the results are worth the effort." Veterinary toothpastes come in flavors your pet will enjoy, and they contain enzymes to prevent tartar.
Look for the seal from the Veterinary Oral Health Council. Established in 1997, the council reviews products claiming to reduce plaque in cats and dogs. If a product meets standards, the manufacturer may use the VOHC Seal of Acceptance on packaging. Like humans, most pets will still need periodic professional teeth cleaning.
