Humans are not the only ones that need regular dental exams and cleanings to keep their teeth healthy. Did you know that your dog and cat should have their teeth brushed and see the veterinarian for dental examinations on a regular basis? While some treats and foods can help keep your pets’ teeth clean, they can’t do everything a trained professional can. So how do you know it might be time to take your furry feline or canine friend in for a vet visit? Here are five signs it could be necessary:
Excessive Drooling
Some dog breeds are known for drooling or being “slobbery”. But there is a difference between normal amounts of drool and excessive amounts due to dental issues. If your dog (or even cat) starts drooling more than normal, if they are doing it not just after drinking water but all of the time, or if the drool changes in consistency (suddenly becoming stringy, thick, or even bloody), it might be a sign there is something wrong with their teeth, gums, or mouth in general.
Seriously Bad Breath
Like drooling, some dogs and cats just have more of a tendency toward bad breath. But there is a difference between normal bad breath and bad breath caused by dental problems. If your canine companion leans in for some kisses to your face and you notice that their breath is super stinky, or if your feline friend gives a yawn while cuddling in your lap and you smell something worse than tuna or treats on their breath, they may have a serious issue with bacterial infections in their mouth.
Refusing Hard Food
What kitty in their right mind would ever refuse food? What dog takes a look at dinner, gives a few sniffs, and then decides to do something else besides eat? Most pets love any opportunity to chow down, so if yours is suddenly refusing their meals, they might have a dental problem. Especially if they seem happy to continue eating soft food, but make it a point to avoid their hard kibble. Now some dogs and cats just prefer wet to dry food, and you could just have a picky eater. But it’s better to be safe than sorry, so have them checked out by the veterinarian. Especially if their lack of interest in hard food has come on suddenly.
Avoiding Toys
While some dogs stop liking certain toys as they age or as they find new things to play with, many dogs have favorite toys that they will carry around, chew on, fetch, and even sleep with. If your dog suddenly stops playing with their favorite toys, there might be a dental issue causing the problem. Especially if they are toys meant to be chewed on or used in games such as tug-of-war. If their gums are sore or inflamed, or if their teeth are causing pain or discomfort, they’ll avoid using their mouths, even on their favorite toys.
Visible Swelling and/or Inflammation
They may not like you poking around in their mouths, but you and your pets will have to learn to accept it so you can regularly look at their teeth and gums and make sure there are no signs of a dental problem. Obvious swelling of the gums, inflammation, heavy-duty build-up of gunk (not a technical term) on the teeth, and discoloration of the gums or tongue, can all be visible signs that your pet’s mouth has an issue and needs to be looked at as soon as possible.
If your pet is in need of a dental examination – whether they are having a current problem or they have never been to see the vet for dental needs before – call a veterinary office that specializes in dental treatment (among other things), such as Affordable Pet Dental Plus. You can get a deal for teeth cleaning or x-rays with THIS great special!
