Many Veterinarians could attest that there are about two-thirds or pet owners who do not comply with the recommended dental practices and treatment for their cats and dogs. Dogs and cats are the two of the most popular domesticated animals, but often, their oral health are being neglected for many reasons. However, if people understand the implications that oral diseases bring, they would consider their pet’s dental health a serious matter.
Diseases in the gums and teeth can lead to serious teeth and gum diseases that can be deadly if left unattended. Chronic oral infections do not only affect the mouth, but also the pet’s internal organs such as the liver, heart, lungs, and kidneys. However, preventive medical care can protect your pets from suffering these illnesses. Added with a regular care, you can protect your pet against conditions that can hamper them to enjoy healthier, longer, lives.
Below are the common dental conditions among cats and dogs. Find out what the causes are and how to detect them in the early stage.
Gingivitis
Pet owners tend to ignore mild redness at the gum of their pets, unaware that it is a symptom of gingivitis. Gingivitis or gum inflammation can be a serious condition if not treated; however, the early stage the case is reversible with appropriate corrective measures. Plaque contained in the pet’s mouth is one of the primary causes of gingivitis. It occurs when food debris are mixed with saliva, mucus, and dead cells that eventually turns to be a breeding ground for bacteria. If you will not treat the disease, your pet may suffer swelling gums and bad breath.
Periodontal Disease
When gingivitis is ignored, it can lead to a more serious disease—periodontal disease. It happens when the plaque hardens and forms into tartar, thus creating narrow spaces between the teeth and gums. These can affect the gums more by allowing bacteria to easily penetrate. The disease can further lead to swelling, bleeding, and receding of gums, making the teeth loose. Periodontal Disease can make it very difficult for your pet to eat and chew food.
Stomatitis
Chronic Ulcerative Paradental Stomatitis (CUPS) commonly referred as stomatitis is a condition that resulted from severe reaction to the plaque on the surfaces of the tooth. Stomatitis can lead your pet into serious illness with gum bleeding, halitosis, weight loss, and loss of appetite. When your pet is suffering the disease, better bring it at the nearest animal hospital plantation.
How to prevent the dental problems of your pets?
- Like humans, pets needs to practice oral health that starts from regular brushing of teeth. At home, you can brush your pet’s teeth at least once a day or thrice a week.
- You can use special veterinary toothpaste, mouthwash with strong anti-bacterial properties, and chew strips to prevent plaque build-up.
- Provide your pets with non-toxic toys they can chew at their leisure. These chewable toys are great for massaging the gums and an outlet for the pet’s boredom and stress.
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