Legend has it that our pet’s mouths are cleaner than our own, but that isn’t exactly true. To guarantee our dogs and cats have strong teeth, gums, and tongues, we need to care for them as we do for ourselves. Read on for some simple tips to keep your pet’s chompers clean and healthy!
Signs of an Unhealthy Mouth
When it comes to our pet’s oral health, it’s important to recognize signs of a potential issue.
These include:
- Bad Breath
- Loose teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Bleeding from the mouth or gums
- Loss of appetite
Identifying these risks can help prevent periodontal disease, which causes gum, tooth, and jawbone decay. Fortunately, there are steps you can take at home to keep your pet’s dental health in tip-top shape.
Keeping Their Pearly Whites
Brushing your furry friend’s teeth will make a huge impact on their overall oral health! Cleaning their teeth a few times weekly will help fight bad breath and tooth decay.
To get your dog or cat used to the process of brushing, it’s recommended that you start with a dental wipe and gently clean the teeth and gums. Once your pet is comfortable, you can introduce pet-specific toothpaste and lightly brush with your finger, or a small toothbrush.
Change Up Their Diet
Not only does a diet of wholesome, fresh food give your pets a happier life, it also helps maintain their oral health. Adding Power Greens Fresh Topper to kibble incorporates parsley into your pet’s diet, which has been known to fight off stinky breath in pets. By using Primal Balanced Bases, you can minimize starches in your pet’s diet. Starches, which are typically high in kibble and canned diets, stick to a pet's teeth and convert to sugars, which can lead to plaque, tartar, gum disease, and decay.
Something to Gnaw On
Chewing is a natural instinct for pets, and gnawing on the proper items can benefit their oral health. With natural chews and toys made specifically for dogs and cats, you can give your pet something to help them remove plaque by performing one of their favorite activities. It also keeps them busy and away from chomping on things like your favorite pair of sneakers!
By brushing, adding wholesome food to their diet, or providing your pets with proper chews, you’ll improve the oral health of your pets and minimize visits to the vet. We can all agree that’s something you and your pets can definitely smile about!