Bad ‘doggy breath’ is no laughing matter!
September is National Hill’s Pet Dental Health Month when owners are reminded that ‘doggy breath’ is no laughing matter and could indicate poor dental hygiene and a serious oral disease that may ultimately affect the health of your pet.
Oral disease is the number one health problem vets diagnose in adult dogs and cats. It causes smelly breath, discoloured teeth, bleeding gums and potentially tooth loss, and the bacteria accumulation can damage your pet’s heart, liver and kidneys. Yet according to Dr Guy Fyvie, veterinary adviser to Hill’s Pet Nutrition, severe oral disease is easily preventable. For many owners, by the time they become aware of the problem it has advanced to affect not only the teeth, but the gums and jaw as well.
“Prevention is better than cure, from both a health and financial perspective,’ says Fyvie. “Oral disease, which can be prevented by a simple pet dental routine, is painful, potentially life-threatening and can be extremely costly if major veterinary treatment is required. Good dental care for cats and dogs is just as important as it is for people and good oral health can result in longer, healthier lives for our pets.”
Periodontal or oral disease occurs when saliva, proteins, bacteria and food particles combine to form plaque that gradually builds up if left on the teeth. Minerals in saliva turn plaque into tartar, a hard yellowish deposit that accumulates around the gum line. Tartar can irritate gums and lead to gingivitis, which is the beginning of periodontal disease. “Your dog or cat’s smelly breath may be the first sign that it has poor dental hygiene,” says Fyvie, who recommends regular veterinary check ups and a simple dental care regime at home to keep pet’s mouth healthy and breath smelling fresh.
How to stay on top of good oral care for your pet:
- Firstly visit your pet’s dentist (the vet) for a dental exam. Don’t wait for the annual check-up if you suspect a problem. If necessary your vet will refer the pet to a specialist veterinary dentist.
- Secondly, start a dental care regime at home. Your vet can advise on the most suitable methods for your pet, which may involve brushing its teeth with specially designed toothpastes and brushes available at your vet or pet store.
- Thirdly, feeding specially formulated foods which clean the animal’s teeth as it eats is also recommended by vets. These foods are convenient and effective, and have been proven to combat plaque and tartar build-up. Hill’s Science Plan Oral Care and Hill’s Prescription Diet® t/d, are the only complete foods in South Africa that have been awarded the Veterinary Oral Health Council Seal of Acceptance for stain, plaque and gingivitis control. Nutritionally balanced and suitable for daily feeding on a long-term basis the kibbles have a special fibre matrix that works like an edible toothbrush, scrubbing the pet’s teeth as it eats.
- A strong immune system will help your pet fight disease, so it’s also important to ensure your pet’s food has the correct balance of nutrients and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
“We had no idea that you could even clean your cat’s teeth,” says pet owner Anlie Malherbe, whose cat Tracey suffered from severe gum disease. “We noticed Tracey wasn’t eating well and she was losing weight but were surprised when the vet diagnosed gingivitis. Unfortunately it was so advanced that antibiotics haven’t cured it and Tracey has had to have all her teeth removed.”
“Animals can’t say how they are feeling and are good at hiding discomfort,” adds Dr Fyvie. “But anyone who has experienced tooth ache knows how painful dental disease can be. Just imagine how you’d feel if you hadn’t brushed your teeth for three years!” he adds.
How to recognise symptoms of Oral Disease in your pet:
(If any of these symptoms are present the pet should be taken to the vet for expert advice.)
- Bad breath
- Red and swollen gums
- A yellow brown crust of tartar around the gum line
- Pain or bleeding when you touch the gums or mouth
- A change in eating or chewing habits
- Pawing at the face or mouth
- Listlessness
Teeth can also be damaged by biting bones, sticks or rocks. “Give your dog proper toys and treats to chew and if a tooth gets broken, seek veterinary help immediately, before the tooth and jaw become infected,” warns Fyvie.
All pets are at risk for developing dental problems, but if you start a preventative programme of dental care today, it is possible to maintain good oral health throughout your pet’s life.
For more information chat to the vet (your pet’s dentist), visit www.HillsPet.co.za or call the Hill’s Pet Nutrition Careline toll-free on (0800) 228 783.
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