Take the stress out of toothbrushing
Our pets have modern diets and cushy lifestyles that their ancestors did not. They also have an increased lifespan. We can't expect our pet’s teeth to stay clean from diet alone. We must clean their teeth regularly to protect them from dental disease. If left unchecked, dental disease can have some far-reaching health effects, so it’s best to treat it early.
Do you have a regular dental hygiene routine in place for your pets?
How often should I brush my pet’s teeth?
In a perfect world, we would brush their teeth twice a day, like humans do, but the reality is probably very different. Our lives are busy and pets can be tricky. Once a day is a big win if you can manage it. You should brush your pet’s teeth at least three times a week for it to be of any real benefit.
What toothpaste & brush?
Fluoride, an ingredient in high concentration in human toothpaste, is toxic in large amounts if swallowed. Our pets can’t spit it out and they don’t like the minty taste. Never use human toothpaste for your pet. Toothpaste made especially for cats and dogs is very low in fluoride and tends to be chicken or beef-flavoured.
There are lots of different types of brushes. There’s the finger brush for animals that don’t like a full toothbrush in their mouths.
A finger toothbrush for pets.
There’s also a special toothbrush with two angled heads. The design makes it easier to get in their mouth. A toddler toothbrush might also work but brushes made specifically for pets are best.
Double-headed toothbrushes for pets.
How do I brush my pet’s teeth well?
Brushing downwards like dentists recommend for humans is going to be tricky. Try brushing in a circular motion and make contact with as much surface area as possible.
The top teeth tend to gather more calculus so prioritise them but don’t forget about the bottom teeth. Try reaching the inside edge of the teeth when you get an opportunity.
Is toothbrushing essential?
Brushing your pets teeth is the gold standard of dental care but, if it’s not possible or it’s too stressful, there are other options.
Raw bones
You can try raw bones, which are nature’s toothbrush, and how wild cats and dogs would maintain their teeth. Although bones carry some risk, they can be a great way of keeping your pet’s teeth clean.
There are important things to keep in mind: Never feed your pet cooked or smoked bones, as the brittle bone can splinter and get stuck or perforate their throat or gastrointestinal tract. Raw bones can cause gastrointestinal upsets or constipation in some cats and dogs. There’s also the risk of breaking teeth, especially with older pets.
A Chihuahua enjoying a raw bone.
Most cats respond very well to raw chicken necks or wings, which do a great job of cleaning teeth. Many owners will find maintaining their cat’s dental health with brushing impossible, so this is a great alternative.
Dental chews
Dental chews are the next best option if brushing is out and you are not keen on raw bones. Do your research and make sure you choose a chew that’s good quality, properly formulated and will actually be effective. Dental chews sold at the supermarkets, for example, are not likely to do much good.
Choose a product that has been proven by clinical studies to benefit your pet’s teeth. The best place to find this is at your vet clinic or a specialist pet store.
Dental gel
A dental gel is the next option if your pet doesn’t like chews. Rub it on their teeth with a finger and leave it to do its job.
Plaque Off
If putting something in your pet’s mouth is a no-go, you can add Plaque Off to their food, which prevents plaque from forming and softens tartar build up.
Plaque Off, a food additive, is easy to find in pet stores, vet clinics and online.
Dental diet
The last step down is a dental diet, like a large, dry kibble. Your pet is forced to chew slowly, scraping plaque off their teeth in the process.
How can I introduce my pet to toothbrushing without stress?
The first step is to get them used to the taste of the toothpaste. Introduce the brush later. Rub a little toothpaste on their gums and teeth regularly and let them adjust.
Then introduce the brush. Give little rewards (food, a game or cuddles) every time they tolerate the paste and brush, so it becomes a positive experience.
Don’t rush it. Give them plenty of time to adjust to one step before moving to the next. Never push beyond your pet’s comfort zone or force it, or brushing their teeth may be permanently off the cards.
Cats don’t tolerate toothbrushing as well as dogs, so you may have to find another way to maintain their teeth. Vets know this, so there are plenty of options!
A regular dental hygiene routine is important
Have a regular routine for dental care, whether it’s brushing, raw bones, dental chews, gel or an approved dental diet. Remember, it’s ok if brushing doesn’t work out for your pet. There are other options.
Book your pet for a dental check-up every 6-12 months and protect them from the discomfort of advanced dental disease.
Ringwood Vet Clinic is offering 15% off all dental surgery and free dental check-ups for Pet Dental Awareness Month in August! Jump online and book your pet for a visit to see how their teeth are doing.