National Pet Dental Health Month (Cat Dentist Time)
February 2, 2009 by Peggy Rowland
Filed under Pets
It’s time to take a look inside your cat’s mouth. In fact, keeping your cat’s teeth clean is essential for its overall health and wellbeing.
It may not seem like kitty loves you when you take him to the vet, but he’ll thank you in unimaginable ways for years to come — just by being your friend.
Plus, keep in mind that cats are good at hiding pain. It may not be obvious to you that there’s a problem.
That’s why February has been set aside as National Pet Dental Health Month.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), more than 85% of dogs and cats 4 years old or more have periodontal disease. That means these pets may suffer from inflamed gums, loose teeth, mouth odor and oral pain.
It all begins with nasty plaque on your pet’s teeth, but there are ways to curb the destruction before it starts.
To stop periodontal disease, the AVMA recommends that you:
• Visit your vet for an examination. If deemed necessary, schedule a professional dental cleaning.
• Brush your pet’s teeth at home with toothpaste made for pets. Also ask your vet for food recommendations to help keep your cat’s teeth cleaner.
• Continue to take your cat to the vet for regular dental checkups as recommended.
This month, The Kitty Blog will devote more posts to pet dental care, so please check back.
Image via stock.xchng.
