March 20, 2012
Posted in Common Pet Conditions, Pet Health, Pet Supplies

Brushing a cat or dog's teeth may seem like a frivolous activity that is supplementary more than vital to its health. However, dental disease affects about 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats by the time they are three years old. This is a shame, since the painful disease – which is linked to serious conditions like heart, lung and kidney diseases and bladder infections – can be easily prevented with a few simple steps at home.

Even if you think your pet's teeth get clean when they chomp on their pet food, tartar can build up after the meal is over, just like it does in humans. For cats, wet or canned food like Halo Spot's Stew Canned Cat Food is better for dental health than hard, dry kibble. This is because while chewing the hard food, cats' teeth can rock, which can wear away their roots. Dogs can eat any type of food, but both types of pets will benefit from regular brushing to reduce the tartar build up.

You should invest in pet products like the C.E.T. Oral Hygiene Kit for Dogs, which comes with toothpaste that your pet will love and a double-ended toothbrush with two brushing heads. You may also find it easier to use Max's Super Dental Wipes instead of a toothbrush. These make it easier to reach your pet's teeth if it is fussy or doesn't like having a brush stuck in its mouth.

Super fussy dogs may be better off with dental treats like C.E.T. HEXtra Premium Chews. These are great for keeping your dog's teeth clean, removing plaque and reducing tartar. For your cat, try Feline Greenies Dental Treats. In addition to keeping your pet healthy, these chews will make their breath smell better.

Mouth wash may seem out of the question for your cat or dog – after all, you are probably not going to be able to teach them how to swish. But there are a number of liquid products on the market that are designed to be added to your pet's water dish. Be Fresh Dental Care Solution can be added to water without the pet even knowing, since it is absolutely flavorless. Even though its presence may not be detected by your pet, you will soon start to notice an improvement in the animal's oral health. These products kill plaque and tartar-producing bacteria, whitening teeth and freshening breath. 

Related posts:

1. Greenies for Your Dog’s Dental Health
2. Why you should pay attention to your cat’s teeth
3. Greenies: More Than Just Dental Chews
4. Are Greenies Dental Chews Safe For My Dog?
5. Dog mouths: Cleaner than ours?