Look out for Dental Disease
Bacteria from your pet's teeth can get into the bloodstream and cause serious heart problems - so keep the teeth clean.
WHAT ARE THEIR SIGNS
Your pet has bad breath with yellow or brown teeth. His gums may be red and he may have difficulty chewing.
AND THE CAUSES
Pets don’t brush their teeth and dental problems are the result. Plaque, a thin coat of bacteria, accumulates on the teeth, it progresses to tartar, leading to gum inflammation. Bacteria also grows under the gum-line, causing gum infection (gingivitis) which can lead to tooth loss if not treated. Cats are prone to a specific type of dental problem called a FORL (Feline Odonotocalstic Resorbptive Lesion). This is equivalent to a cavity where the tooth decays at the gum line.
SOLUTIONS
DENTAL DIET. Ensure that your dog eats a dry kibble with larger pieces that have to be chewed. Some food companies now produce specific dental diets which will lower tartar buildup. They are more abrasive on the teeth and some contain an enzyme which lowers tartar formation. These foods are available at your local veterinarian.
NATURAL DIETS. Raw meaty bones and windpipes from cows or pigs can help keep teeth clean. If your dog splinters and swallows large pieces of bone, he is at risk of obstruction, so don’t give him bones. Some cats love chicken necks. To rule out the risk of Salmonella (a bacterial infection), put the bones or windpipes in boiling water for 30 seconds first.
IN THE GARDEN. Raw vegetables, such as carrots are a great, low calorie treat which can help clean the teeth. If your dog likes them, then feed away.
Click here for info
No comments:
Post a Comment