February is Pet Dental Health Month

Our veterinarians at Central Animal Hospital want you to know that February is Pet Dental Health Month. This pet dental month, sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA) and other veterinary groups, highlights the significance of good oral health care for pets.

The American Veterinary Dental College says that most dogs and cats show signs of periodontal disease by the time they are three years old. Periodontal disease includes gingivitis, characterized by pain gum inflammation, and periodontitis that results in bone and tissue loss around the affected teeth. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to other serious health conditions, including infections, weakened bones in the oral cavity and nasal passages, and microscopic changes in the heart, liver and kidneys.

Signs of pet dental problems include:

• 

  Bad breath

• Loose or missing teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Teeth covered in tartar
• Sensitivity when touched in the mouth area
• Drooling
• Dropping food from the mouth
• Bleeding from the mouth, especially at the gum line
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss

Celebrate Pet Dental Month – Make An Appointment with Our Pet Dentist

This year, celebrate Pet Dental Month with by making your dog or cat an appointment with our pet dentist at Central Animal Hospital. Our veterinarians will perform a comprehensive dental exam to evaluate your pet’s oral health. We will remove plaque and tartar that could build up on your pet’s teeth, increasing the risk for periodontal disease.

During your appointment, our veterinarians can show how to look for signs of periodontal disease or other oral health problems – we can even share some tips on how to brush your pet’s teeth. Depending on your pet’s oral health needs, our veterinarians may suggest nutritional supplements or specially formulated food that helps remove plaque and tartar from your dog or cat’s teeth.

Your pet should have a dental health checkup at least once a year. This year, start a tradition of taking your cat or dog to our pet dentist during Pet Dental Month every February.

How will you celebrate pet dental health month this year?