LIFESTYLE NEWS - Although often overlooked by pet owners, your pet's dental health is an important part of your pet's overall health. Dental problems can not only be caused by, but also lead to, serious health concerns.
The mouth is the perfect breeding ground for bacterial and organism growth, due to its warm, moist nature and the fact that nutrients are present here.
While most are considered normal they can lead to plaque and tartar build up, which upsets the normal microbial flora balance and can lead to concerning dental issues.
1. Regular home checks
• bad breath
• broken or loose teeth
• extra teeth or baby teeth that have not fallen out as they should
• discolouration of teeth or tartar build up
• abnormal chewing, drooling or continual dropping of food from the mouth
• reduced appetite or refusal to eat
• pain in or around the mouth
• bleeding in the mouth
• swelling in the areas surrounding the mouth
2. Annual veterinary check-ups
• make use of this as and when recommended by your vet
• regularly brushing your pet's teeth with a pet appropriate tooth paste (never use human variations)
• allow your vet to perform dental cleaning as needed
• games and chew toys that stimulate mechanical action of the mouth or on the teeth will also aid in cleaning the teeth.
• the start of good oral hygiene.
All products, diets and treats that claim to have dental cleaning qualities, sold in the market by PFI (Pet Food Industry Association of Southern Africa) members who are committed to your pet's overall health and wellbeing, will be registered under Act 36. This means that the products will have been screened by the Act 36 Technical Advisor to ensure the validity of the cleaning claims.
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