Committed to educating the Filipino pet community on proper pet care, the Pet Food Institute (PFI) shared tips on how pet owners can protect their pet’s choppers.
Veterinarians recommend brushing your pet’s teeth daily or every other day, as plaque can be brushed away easily before it hardens, which takes between 24 to 48 hours.
If a toothbrush scares your pet, you can ease your pet into becoming more comfortable by first wiping his or her teeth with a pet-safe gauze pad or dental wipe.
These options are similar to a toothbrush and are a great way to get cats or dogs comfortable with their teeth being touched.
Since dental care can both a stressful event for some pet owners, developing this routine at an early age may help their pets become more relaxed during the procedure.
In addition to professional cleanings and an at-home care routine, dental treats and chews are specifically designed to provide dental-related benefits to dogs and cats.
These treats and chews are meant to remove plaque buildup and often include ingredients that help to clean a cat or dog’s mouth. Many pet dental treats even freshen breath.
Experts recommend regular professional teeth cleanings from a veterinarian, starting at one or two years old, depending on a cat or dog’s size.
Your pet will be put under anesthesia so that each tooth will receive proper attention and care, including under the gum line.
These cleanings should be done annually and will include an oral exam to detect any issues or concerns.
