our advice : ASK DR . CATE
Vet Rap by Dr . Ryan Cate
Keeping Your Pet ’ s Teeth Clean With This New Year
By DR . RYAN CATE and MELISSA MOORMAN
QUESTION : Dear Dr . Cate : My dog has recently developed problems eating and loss of appetite as well as terrible breath . What could be the cause ?
ANSWER : While there are many reasons your dog could be having problems eating , it could be caused by dental pain . Since February is National Pet Dental Health Month , this is a great opportunity to discuss some of the causes and treatments for the most common issues .
Dogs , like people , will likely have some dental pain during their lifetimes . The good news is that you can lessen the likelihood by preventative care you can do at home . The best thing you can do is to brush your animal ’ s teeth each day to remove plaque that contributes to dental decay . While many dogs and cats allow their owners to brush their teeth , some pets respond better to specially developed food or treats that can remove plaque and tartar . A list of accepted products can be found for both cats and dogs at the Veterinary Oral Health Council ’ s website at www . vohc . org .
While special food and treats are a part of improving your pet ’ s overall dental health , regular trips to the vet are necessary for true dental health . During a regularly scheduled visit with your doctor , your animal ’ s teeth will be examined and the level of decay , gingivitis , broken teeth or disease will be assessed . Vets are
looking for teeth that don ’ t fit together when the animal bites , swelling , tartar buildup , missing teeth , cavities and abscesses . Of special note will be any painful areas containing lesions . Your vet may also recommend a special cleaning . If treatment is required , you can expect your dog or cat to be sedated while extensive examination occurs , x-rays are taken and then treatment can occur . Treatment can include scraping and polishing the teeth to remove any plaque and tartar and then flushing the mouth to remove anything found on the teeth and even extraction of any infected or problem teeth . If any oral surgery is needed , your vet will consult with you and explain exactly what is needed to help your animal improve .
Some of the indicators of dental issues in your pet can include bad breath , problems eating or loss of appetite , swollen or bleeding gums , usually in the back of the mouth , broken or missing teeth . Other clues would be blood in the saliva or nasal discharge and obvious lesions in your pet ’ s mouth . If any of these issues are present , be sure and schedule a visit to your veterinarian right away .
It is important to remember that your pet can ’ t tell you when it is experiencing dental pain , so it ’ s important to get teeth and gums checked regularly . But prevention is always best and it starts with the right soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for animals . Start slowly and gently if this is something new for you and your pet . Keep a treat handy . Brushing should start as soon as your animal ’ s teeth emerge .
Great dental hygiene for your pet is a win for everyone because the least expensive method of maintaining your pet ’ s oral health is prevention . Using a combination of brushing , dental chews , dental diets and toys can help you keep your pet ’ s mouth healthier longer .
FEBRUARY 2018 PARKER COUNTY TODAY
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