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DENTAL HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS FOR PETS
 Dogs
and cats get plaque on their teeth just like we do! Plaque is made of
proteins (from saliva) and bacteria. If the plaque is not removed every
day, the bacteria will multiply rapidly and invade the gums around the
teeth. Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, results. If the plaque
is still not removed, the inflammation of the gums will spread to the
bone around the teeth and cause bone loss or periodontal disease. Ultimately,
the teeth have no bony support and may become loose or even fall out.
Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible and periodontal disease is preventable!
When plaque is removed by tooth-brushing, the gums and bone around the
teeth will stay healthy. If plaque is not removed, calculus or "tartar"
will form when minerals from saliva cause the plaque to harden. Once calculus
is present, a professional cleaning is needed to remove it. You can prevent
calculus from forming by removing plaque every day with tooth-brushing.
Tooth-brushing should be introduced gradually. Don't force the mouth open.
Start by just sliding your finger under the cheek and running your finger
along the teeth and gums. Do this every day for about a week, and always
praise your pet during and afterwards, or give her a favorite toy when
you are finished. When she is used to this, begin using a soft-bristled
toothbrush and pet toothpaste. (Human toothpaste contains foaming agents
which can upset your pet's stomach. Fluoride is also not needed, as dogs
and cats don't usually get the same kind of cavities people do.) The paste
should be pressed down into the bristles, so the pet doesn't lick it off
the brush. Start by brushing just a few teeth at a time. Hold the toothbrush
at a 45 angle so the bristles go under the gumline. Only the outside surfaces
of the teeth need to be brushed at first. Try to use a circular motion
with the toothbrush if at all possible.
Brushing should be done at the same time every day so it becomes part
of your pet's daily routine. Afterwards, give a reward such as a favorite
toy, a walk, or lots of praise. Most dogs and some cats will actually
learn to enjoy this daily ritual, and will see it as extra attention from
their favorite person.
Chewing activity: dogs who are active chewers are less likely to have
plaque build-up. Chew toys such as KongŪ toys, Plaque AttackersŪ, GumabonesŪ,
or rawhide are recommended. Hard plastic bones or sterilized real bones
are too hard and may cause tooth fractures. Fresh bones with meat and
cartilage still on them are ok, but they should be removed after a few
hours, because they become hard as they dry out. Edible treats are often
eaten too quickly to be of much benefit, and may add significant calories
to the diet.
Special diets, such as Hill's T/D diets, available through veterinarians for dogs
and cats, and Friskies Dental Diet for cats, help reduce plaque build-up,
too. These are nutritionally complete so they can be fed as a maintenance
food, or can be used as treats if your pet is on a special diet.
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