Oral disease is the #1 health problem diagnosed in dogs and cats. You can help keep your pet’s teeth strong and healthy at home – and positively impact their overall health – with these tips for home dental care and pet tooth brushing.
Following a consistent dental home care program will safeguard your pet’s dental health and result in fewer professional dental cleanings, reduce tooth loss and dental disease, and a happier, healthier pet.
Start brushing their teeth as soon as possible – 8-12 weeks old is best. If you brush every day, your pet will become familiar with the routine when their permanent teeth erupt.
Work with your pet’s mouth. Be patient and make it fun. Use love and praise, and try to practice at the same time each day to establish a routine.
Choose a quiet time, such as late in the evening, or if you pet is motivated by food, try just before dinner so your pet will be rewarded for cooperation.
Handle the muzzle and touch your pet’s lips and work up to rubbing the gums with your finger. Put a few drops of low sodium beef broth, or for cats, tuna juice on your finger, and then work up to chicken or tuna flavored veterinary toothpaste on your finger.
Finally, use a finger brush or a soft veterinary or human toothbrush to brush the teeth. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth and brush gently back and forth or in a circular pattern from gum to the tip of the tooth. Offer rewards and treats when your pet allows you to brush to keep it a positive experience.
Consider other dental aids. We have a large selection of dental chews, wipes, toothbrushes, pastes, and brushing kits right here in our pharmacy!
For dogs –
- CET Chews in a variety of sizes $23-37
- CET Veggiedent Chews $31-40
- CET Toothpaste $16.43
- Vetoquinol Toothbrush kit $22.59
- Prescription Diet Canine t/d original & small bites – $36-113 (depends on bag size)
*We do not recommend very hard treats such as bones, hooves and antlers because dogs may break their teeth on them.
For cats –
- Greenies $5+
- CET Cat Toothbrush + paste $10.69
- Vetoquinol Toothbrush kit for cats $22.59
- Prescription Diet Feline t/d $32-63
Home dental care can go a long way in slowing dental disease and stretching out the need for professional cleanings. Check the Veterinary Oral Health Council web site for a list of products that have been proven effective in removing plaque. The gold standard is daily brushing, but if you can’t do that, do something!