Our pet’s dental health is not something most of us think about every day. But dental health issues can lead to discomfort, pain, and a myriad of other health problems.
Below are a few of the common signs your canine or feline may exhibit if they are suffering from dental health issues.
- Bad Breath — Just saying “Dog Breath” will invoke a cringy shudder in most people. And while bad breath is terrible, it is a reliable sign that dental problems are happening.
- Eating Habits Change — Pets limit or stop eating for many reasons, but one reason is dental issues like painful teeth and gums. When your pet stops or drastically limits their eating, they can become malnourished.
- Visible Plaque/Calculous Build-Up — If you can check your pet’s teeth and gums and see brown and/or yellow buildup on your pet’s gumline, it’s time to get their teeth cleaned.
- Decrease in Grooming — Cats are known for being enthusiastic groomers, so when they stop, you know something is amiss. If your feline, and even canine, grooms a lot less, it could be that a painful dental issue is stopping them.
- Excessive Drooling — When you notice your dog’s drooling increases, it’s a good sign that something is out of sorts in their mouth. While it may not be a dental problem or something worse, it is a good sign to get your pet into their veterinarian.
- 3 Years of Age or Older — Did you know that 85% of pets have some form of dental disease by the age of three? This is particularly true for small and toy breeds. If your pet’s veterinarian hasn’t broached the subject yet, be sure to bring it up during your next pet wellness visit.
If you notice any of these symptoms, get your pet to their veterinarian. Go over all your pet’s symptoms and behavioral changes with the doctor and what is the best course of action.
