Dental Care for Dogs and Cats

Studies have shown that oral cavity diseases are the most common diagnoses in dogs and cats at veterinary practices (1). At the same time, many other diseases, such as Renal insufficiency, diabetes, or heart problems, are found significantly more often in animals with poor dental health (2-5). It is therefore crucial for dog and cat owners to pay close attention to the condition of their pets' teeth and gums and to schedule regular veterinary check-ups.

The most common symptoms of Dental problems in dogs and cats:

• Bad breath
• Yellowish-brown deposits on the teeth (tartar)
• Gum inflammation, recognizable by a bright red gum line
• Bleeding gums
• Pain when eating
• Changes in eating behavior

How pet owners can prevent Dental problems

The best prophylaxis for Dental problems is brushing teeth, not only for humans but also for dogs and cats. Animals usually need to be accustomed to it as young animals, and brushing should be done consistently at least 2-3 times a week. Generally, a soft toothbrush or a special finger attachment should be used. For cats, a cotton swab is often sufficient to remove plaque. The toothpaste must also be specially formulated for dogs and cats in terms of taste and composition.

Unfortunately, not every dog and cat enjoys having their teeth brushed. For these pets, there are other ways to promote the health of their teeth and gums:

• through special food, which, due to its structure and composition, prevents or slows down the formation of plaque and tartar.
• by adding special food supplements to food or drinking water, which slow down the formation of tartar
• by giving chews, some of which are enriched with enzymes and primarily help keep teeth clean through mechanical abrasion
• through regular brushing teeth with suitable toothbrushes, finger brushes, or dental hygiene toys.

Despite these preventive products, some severely affected animals will need professional tartar removal by a vet every few years. Do not be deterred by the necessary anesthesia. It is usually a short, superficial anesthesia that allows for thorough tartar removal, thus promoting the health of teeth and gums.

1. Lund EM, Armstrong PJ, Kolar LM, et al.: Health status and population characteristics of dogs and cats examined at private veterinary practices in the United States. J Am Med Vet Assoc 214;1999:1336-1341.
2. Glickman LT, Glickman NW, Moore GE, et al.: Evaluation of the risk of endocarditis and other cardiovascular events on the basis of the severity of periodontal disease in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2009;234(4):486-94.
3. Glickman LT, Glickman NW, Moore GE, et al.: Association between chronic azotemic kidney disease and the severity of periodontal disease in dogs. Prev Vet Med 2011;99(2-4):193-200.
4. Iacopino AM.: Periodontitis and diabetes interrelationships: role of inflammation. Ann Periodontol 2001;6:125-137.
5 Beck JD, Offenbacher S.; The association between periodontal diseases and cardiovascular diseases: A state-of-the-science review. Ann Periodontol 2001;6:9-15.