Since February is National Pet Dental Health Month, it’s a good time to review your pet’s oral health. Here are some tips on how to start a dental hygiene routine with your dog or cat.

How to start a dental hygiene routine


·         See your veterinarian

o   They can detect any periodontal diseases

o    Help determine the health of your pet’s teeth

·         Get the right tools

o   Use a dog/cat toothbrush

o   Use dog/cat formulated toothpaste

§  Never use human toothpaste. The foaming agent in fluoride can cause upset stomachs and other health problems

§  Dog/cat toothpaste comes in flavors that could help the process

·         Gradually introduce your pet to the toothbrush and toothpaste

o   Leave the toothpaste out so they can smell and taste it

o   Provide treats so they think it’s a good thing

o   Rub the toothpaste on your pet’s mouth, teeth and lips. Give them a favorite treat and praise them

§  Do this for several days to a couple of weeks

o   Once your pet is adjusted to the toothpaste, introduce them to the toothbrush

§  Put toothpaste on it and let them lick it off

§  Use treats and lots of praise

·         Once you’ve gotten your pet to accept the toothbrush, start brushing in short intervals and use lots of praise

o   Then work up to a more thorough cleaning, 30 seconds or longer

o   Focus on the outside of the teeth

§  The inside is less likely to have any plaque build up

o   The best way to get access is to stroke the side of their face and then run toothbrush along gum line at about 45 degree angle

·         Try to keep it fun for your pet which will make it easier to do daily

Alternatives


If you don’t want to brush your pet’s teeth daily, there are alternatives to a toothbrush and toothpaste.

·         Dental treats

o   Don’t forget this is extra calories. Feed your dog a little bit less to account for the calories in dental treats, so he doesn’t gain weight.

·         Dog chews

o   Look for natural products that have a little bit of give to them like bully sticks.

·         Raw bones

o   Raw, meaty bones, on the other hand, are a great option to help clean your dog’s teeth naturally.

o   Raw bones are soft enough not to splinter but tough enough to give your dog’s teeth and jaws a workout.

·         Dental powder

o   Helps with plaque, tartar and bad breath

o   Sprinkle directed amount on pet’s food daily

·         Chew toys

o   Chewing helps remove plaque and tartar as well as stimulating your dog’s gums.

o   Look for soft rubber toys with interesting textures that can help scrub in between your dog’s teeth.

·         Dental spray

o   Dental spray could be an option if your dog won’t let you put your fingers in his mouth.

o   Dental sprays can help with bad breath, but they contain enzymes to help battle plaque, tartar, and gingivitis.

·         Dental wipes

o   If your dog tolerates you putting your finger in his mouth but won’t let you upgrade to a toothbrush, dental wipes may be a good option. A dental wipe will help you stimulate your dog’s gums better than with just your finger

o   It’s also less messy than putting toothpaste on your finger and rubbing it around your dog’s mouth.