Six ways to keep your pet’s teeth clean

    pets teeth cleaning

Not only is February the month of love, but it’s also National Pet Dental Health Month! But according to a recent poll, less than 10% of pet owners brush their pet’s teeth on a daily basis.

 

 

 

While the gold standard in pet dental care is daily brushing, there are other options you can try. After all, doing something for your pet’s oral health is better than doing nothing at all!

In this article we’ll guide you through six ways you can show your love by helping to keep your pet’s pearly whites healthy and clean. Always look for products that have the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of acceptance when considering dental health products for your pet. These products have been proven to slow the development of plaque and tartar in pets.

  1. Brushing. Most dogs accept brushing, but cats can be a bit more difficult to train. Training using a consistent and gentle approach with a lot of patience is important. Be sure to use a toothbrush specifically designed for a cat or dog. Use a toothpaste formulated for pets that has the VOHC seal of acceptance. Never use human toothpaste, as it can make your pet sick.
  2. Oral rinses, gels and wipes. Applied after the last meal of the day and not rinsed off, these products are effective at reducing plaque. The ingredients are safe for pets to swallow and come in tempting flavors like salmon for cats and green apple for dogs!
  3. Specially formulated diets. These diets have a specially designed kibble size, shape and texture to help clean the teeth. Some also have ingredients that reduce tartar and plaque.
  4. Chew treats. With a unique shape to help gently scrape plaque or tarter off your pet’s teeth, chews do double duty—they’re a treat and improve oral health!
  5. Water additives. These are added to your pet’s drinking water and reduce plaque and tartar as your pet drinks. 
  6. Regular dental check-ups by your veterinarian. Your pet’s teeth and gums should be examined by your veterinarian at least once a year for early signs of problems and to keep your pet’s mouth healthy. 

Speak to your veterinarian about dental products, treats or dental-specific diets you’re considering for your pet, or ask your veterinarian for their recommendations.

Find veterinarian-approved products to help get your pet's oral health routine organized today. >>