February is Dental Month: Why Your Pet’s Teeth Matter

February isn’t just the month of love — it’s also Dental Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of oral health for your pets. While we focus on our own teeth, it’s easy to overlook the health of our furry friends’ teeth. But just like us, they need regular dental care to avoid serious health problems.

Why Doggy (and Kitty) Dental Health Matters

Good oral hygiene isn’t just about fresh breath; it’s about overall health. Poor dental care can lead to a host of issues for dogs and cats, including:

  • Bad breath: Foul-smelling breath is often a sign of dental issues, such as plaque buildup or gum disease.
  • Tooth decay: Just like humans, our pets can develop cavities. Untreated cavities can lead to pain, infection, or tooth loss.
  • Gum disease: Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) can progress to periodontal disease, which can cause tooth loss and affect your furry friend’s overall health.
  • Infections: Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs, including the heart and kidneys.

Signs of Poor Oral Health

Your pet can’t tell you when something is wrong with their teeth, but there are some telltale signs to watch out for:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Pawing at the mouth or face
  • Difficulty eating or chewing
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Loose or missing teeth
  • Unpleasant breath

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time for a professional dental check-up.

How to Care for Your Pet’s Teeth

Dental care doesn’t have to be difficult, and there are several ways you can help keep their teeth in great shape:

  1. Brush Their Teeth Regularly The best way to prevent plaque and tartar buildup is by brushing teeth. Use a dog/cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste (never human toothpaste) and aim to brush their teeth a few times a week. If you’re unsure how to get started, ask us for some tips.
  2. Provide Dental Chews and Toys Dental chews and toys can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup while keeping your pet entertained. Look for products that are approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) to ensure they’re effective and safe (we have MANY!).
  3. Offer a Healthy Diet A nutritious, balanced diet can support not only overall health but that includes their dental health. Some foods are specifically formulated to help with dental care (chlorophyll, peppermint, or parsley) while others may have added ingredients to fight plaque (if you feed commercial raw, there are natural enzymes in the raw meats that can help fight bacteria and plaque).
  4. Regular Checkups Just like us humans, pets can need professional cleanings too. If it is just a cleaning you need, call us for a pain free, low stress, Non-Anesthesia Dental cleaning with us, at Leo&Luckys. Otherwise, your vet can perform a dental examination and deep cleaning if necessary. In some cases, they may recommend dental X-rays to ensure that your dog’s teeth are healthy beneath the surface.
  5. Preventatives There are additives that can help freshen your dog’s breath and reduce the buildup of tartar. Most are an easy addition to your pet’s bowl and can complement brushing. We have a wide range of dental sprays and gels, food toppers, dental chews, or water additives to make it very convenient for you. Cats love our Silvervine wood chews for dental health. For your small furry friends, we offer a variety of dental chews in our small animal department.

Celebrate Dental Month!

February is the perfect time to start focusing on your pet’s dental health. Here are a few ways to celebrate:

  • Schedule a dental checkup: Book your appointment to get your pets teeth checked and cleaned. Call us at 941-776-0770 to set up your appointment
  • Give your pet dental treats: Reward your pet with a dental chew or treat that supports oral health.
  • Start a brushing routine: If you haven’t already, begin brushing your pet’s teeth a few times a week.

Final Thoughts

Your pet’s health is deeply connected to their dental care. By making oral hygiene a priority, you can help ensure that they stay happy, healthy, and pain-free for many years to come. February is a great time to start, but dental care should be part of your routine year-round. Here’s to a bright smile for your best friend! 🐾