Oral Care Tips for Animals

Just like humans, animals require proper dental care to avoid tooth loss among a myriad of other dental problems, such as tooth abscesses. In addition to taking your pet to the veterinarian for a professional cleaning, provide care for your pet's teeth by following oral care tips recommended by animal health professionals. Regular dental care will contribute to better overall pet health as well as more-pleasant-scented breath.

  1. Dogs

    • Veterinarians recommend brushing your dog's teeth daily using a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dog teeth. You can also make a dog toothpaste out of water and baking soda. Refrain from using human toothpaste, as it can upset a dog's stomach, or toothpastes that contain fluoride since fluoride can interfere with enamel formation in dogs under six months old. Get your dog used to teeth brushing by massaging her lips for 30 to 60 seconds in circular motions for a few weeks until she seems comfortable enough for you to move on to teeth brushing. Your dog's gums should be bright pink with no signs of swelling, tartar, redness or white patches. Inspect your dog's gums by having her face you while you lift her upper lip.

    Cats

    • It's a good idea to brush cats' teeth at least twice weekly if not daily. Massage your cat's muzzle to get her used to the idea of teeth brushing. Lift her lips to massage the gums, then wrap your finger in gauze and massage the teeth once gum massage is accepted. Brush her teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for cats after she has become used to having her teeth and gums handled. Dry food is recommended to help clean her teeth and get rid of tartar. There are also liquid dental products for cats that can be added to her water to prevent tartar. Do not give your cat any toys to chew that are harder than her teeth.

    Horses

    • Horses require regular dental exams, as horse teeth continue to grow throughout their lives. Periodontal disease is common in horses, therefore horses whose teeth are not properly cared for may develop tooth abscesses and other health issues and behaviors including performance problems, head shaking and cribbing, or a horse chewing on her stall. "Floating" is a technique used to sand down horse teeth that have become too sharp and is frequently a part of horse dental exams. Veterinarians recommend taking your horse for regular exams rather than waiting until tooth problems have become severe.

    Small Pet Dental Tips

    • Rabbit teeth may become overgrown over time, rendering them unable to close their mouths, which results in drooling. They may also develop sharp edges on their back molars, which can cut and scrape the tongue. Take your rabbit to the veterinarian as needed, and provide her with a healthy diet to avoid dental problems.

      Choose a veterinarian with avian specialization for bird oral care, as bird beaks may become overgrown over time. A rotating, grinding stone is often recommended for large birds to smooth and shape beaks. Diets high in protein and vitamin A are recommended as reptile dental care.