Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth
Many pet owners leave out an important aspect of dogs’ and cats’ health—dental care. In addition to annual visits to the veterinarian, you should consider brushing their teeth daily. It can make their lives easier—like pet doors can. You may prevent disease, tooth extractions, and even avoid dog teeth cleaning by vet technicians.
Shopping for dog and cat doors may be simple, but how do you go about getting your pet to cooperate with toothbrushing? First, your dog must be calm and relaxed. Try to brush pets’ teeth daily so they get used to the routine; it can prevent bad breath, tooth decay, discoloration, gum disease, and oral bacteria from entering a pet’s bloodstream and organs.
The American Animal Hospital Association recommends an anesthetized procedure for cleaning dog teeth once a year for small breeds, and every two years for larger ones. Cat teeth should be similarly cleaned annually, but here’s how to optimize your pet’s dental health.
How to Brush a Pet’s Teeth
- Use a toothbrush for dogs with soft bristles at a specific angle (cats generally have smaller mouths and need an even smaller brush).
- Avoid using human toothpaste, which can upset a dog’s stomach.
- Hold the bristles at a 45-degree angle to the tooth surface.
- Brush in an oval motion, and scrub the gum line.
- For inside surfaces of pet teeth, hold their muzzle from the top, squeeze, and push back the lips on one side, keeping the mouth open, and gently pull their head back. You’ll then be able to brush the teeth on the opposite side.
Regular brushing can lessen the need for pet dental services. Only your vet knows how to remove plaque from dog’s teeth, but you can do your part. Introducing your pet to dental care should be done gradually. Apply a tasty treat to your finger and gently rub pet teeth and gums. Once they’re comfortable, start using gauze and rub in a circular motion. When they can handle this, start using a toothbrush.
By cleaning dog and cat teeth regularly, you can avoid canine dental problems and feline issues, such as tooth resorption. You also don’t have to think about what to expect after dog teeth cleaning as much. Then, if you have the time to think about it and need state-of-the-art dog doors, browse Australia Pet Doors or call us for help at +61-437-644-330.
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