Dental disease is one of the most common reasons that your dog or cat may require costly surgical and medical treatment. Recent statistics in Australia have shown that 60% of pets over the age of 3 have some degree of dental disease that will require veterinary attention – and veterinary dental treatments generally involve a full general anaesthetic. These procedures are not only costly but also involve an inherent risk, albeit minor, from the anaesthetic.
So the big question is – why do we need veterinary dentistry ? Why are dogs and cats getting rotten teeth and gums in such large numbers ?
The basic truth is that we no longer feed dogs and cats their natural diet. We are feeding high levels of carbohydrate rich dry and tinned food, which results in the accumulation of significant levels of plaque on the surface of the teeth, which in turn calcifies to become tartar. The tartar contains literally billions of bacterial colonies that invade the gums causing painful gingivitis, and ultimately erodes the tooth root attachment, resulting in damage and tooth loss.
Many pet owners still mistakenly believe that feeding dry food actually prevents dental disease, but the truth is quite the opposite. There are only a couple of prescription veterinary foods that have been proven to assist with preventing dental plaque formation, and they can be very expensive….but, there is a very simple and inexpensive solution
1.when/if you are starting with a puppy then we can get you and the puppy use to tooth brushing like you do with your own teeth twice a day. Our nursing team at Monier Vet clinic are happy to show you how. Book a visit.
2.That will mechanically remove the plaque from your pets teeth when they chew it.
3. Some treats like Ovavet chews are for sale at Monier Veterinary Clinic when used regulary will help with tartar control.
