Pet Dental Month is traditionally in February and has been since I can remember! Most Veterinary Clinics offer sizable discounts; so take advantage of that. Dental care for pets is as important for them as it is for us. A once a year exam is recommended; additional visits if needed.
Pet Dental Month: Why?
If you are doing regular home care of your pet’s teeth, you will no doubt notice things like bad breath, broken or missing teeth, swelling or bleeding. In addition, you could see your cat or dog chewing only on one side of its mouth. Moreover, you might even hear it cry in pain if it bites with the wrong tooth! We all know what a toothache feels like! Definitely, time to contact your vet! As with humans, an abscess could cause further trouble when the infection moves to the heart. By the way, a pet with a toothache might be grumpy and try to bite!
Pets generally have fewer cavities than people but other conditions are often similar. Periodontal disease can cause damage to the kidneys, liver and heart. They have plaque just like we do and that needs to be cleaned off periodically. Consequently, keeping up with your pets dental needs is important. However, if you put it off until the condition is serious, it can be deadly. Moreover, older pets often can’t handle being under anesthesia long enough to do complicated procedures.
Pet Dental Care: Who?
Your Veterinarian is the person to do a dental cleaning, fillings and extractions, if necessary. There are vets who specialize in dental care and can do the really complicated procedures. Incidentally, you will need an appointment and you cat or dog goes in “NPO.” (Nothing by mouth, usually after 10 pm or midnight.) Moreover, he/she might spend most of the day. Your clinic will keep you updated. Be sure you can be easily reached. Occasionally, the Vet may need to do radiographs to check the seriousness of a problem. Most clinics offer pre-operative blood work; it’s is generally required on older pets. This will indicate any underlaying problems for your pet. Always a good idea.
What is the Process?
You will feel better about this entire procedure if you know what to expect. Your pet will be nervous just because it’s the vet clinic! Much like we used to feel at the dentist’s office. Your pet might get a mild sedative first and then anesthesia. The animal must be still for everything! It is safer for everyone. His vitals will get monitored throughout the procedures.
Technicians will observe as he/she wakes up after the dental work. Anesthesia can affect different animals differently, just like us. Incidentally, your pet might be groggy for the rest of the day. Moreover, he will be hungry; however, ask your veterinarian how soon you can give him water or food. DO NOT give him anything sooner! The clinic will explain everything when you pick him up. Most likely, you will be given a printed handout. Make sure you obtain that because it will have very important information for you.
At home, keep your pet quiet until the following morning. Your pet could be a little clumsy from anesthesia. This is especially true of cats who might think they can climb just like normal! We don’t want any accidents! Also, their eyes may not focus well until the following day; you can generally see that their pupils are unusually large. You may have special feeding instructions and pain medications to give. Be sure give medications exactly as directed so that your pet stays comfortable and quiet.
What Else do I Need to do?
Regular dental care at home is important. However, it isn’t always easy. We can only do our best, but it is a critical part of your pet’s health regime. Discuss this with your Veterinarian because she knows the condition of the teeth. Moreover, she is familiar with what products are available. She can make the best recommendations for you. There are even special food and treats that help the teeth. Also special flavored chew toys that are popular with the critters.
More Information
American Veterinary Medical Association
Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth – Cornell Feline Health Center
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