Happy Independence Day Everyone! Now that we have made it into summer and the days are getting hotter and hotter, have you noticed that your pet's breath which is referred to as, halitosis is getting worse? In this issue we will try to help you freshen your pets breath so you can breath easier.
Did you know that it is a fact that using good hygiene on your pets can prolong their life. By the age of 3 yrs old, 80% of pets show signs of oral disease, which is often indicated by bad breath, change in eating habits and pawing at the face and mouth and depression. According to the National Pet Products Association, only one out of three pet owners purchases dental products to use on their pets. Only 5% report brushing their pet's teeth daily. Most bad breath is caused by bacteria in the mouth. Normal breath in dogs and cats should not smell bad but any smell you find should be from the food they just ate.
Dogs have 42 teeth and cats have 30 teeth in their mouths. Therefore dogs will have worse bad breath than cats.
It is a fact that your pet's teeth must be professionaly cleaned to remove calculus and plaque. Trying to do it at home is not possible. Your pet, just like us humans, must have periodic professional cleaning. To do it thoroughly and completely, anesthesia must be used by a professional. After this the owner can brush their pet's teeth to help maintain the pet's teeth and overall health. By the way, if you have an older pet it needs to be evaluated before you use anesthesia for cleaning.
Yes, we are aware that all of this is very expensive. But if you love and cherish your pet and want it to live a longer life, keeping it's teeth clean will not only control bad breath but also prolong your pet's life.
The products that are available range from toothbrushes, toothpaste, oral gels, sprays, food or water additives, essential oils and enzyme -infused chews. Here are a few ideas that you can do that will help on the pocketbook.
- First of all it is important to use dental products specifically designed for dogs and cats. Do not use human toothpaste on your pet's teeth. Our toothpaste is not meant to be swallowed. Products are available for cats and dogs at most pet supply stores and at your veterinarian's office.
- If you start early when your pet is a puppy or kitten, your pet will get used to having their mouth looked at and their teeth cleaned.
- Some pets do not like things stuck into their mouth, try a finger brush to maintain your pet's teeth.
- Kong dental toys are one of the best ways to help your pet massage their gums and clean their teeth by themselves. This product is dishwasher safe so you can remove any bacteria that may be on it after they are done playing with it. We carry a wide range of Kong toys. Visit our store at http://www.toys4dogsncats.com/ .
- Try not to feed your pet treats that contain large amounts of sugar and that are sticky and chewy. Carrots are a good treat, they are actually abrasive and will help remove plaque.
Remember that we are not professional doctors, and you should always read instructions and talk to your vet about what is best for your pets.
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Johnny and Connie
