People sometimes make fun of me for taking care of my cats’ teeth. They ask, “Why would you spend all that money to have their teeth cleaned? They’re just pets.” Well, they may be cats, but their teeth get just as dirty as humans’ teeth do. Imagine if we didn’t brush our teeth—not only would it feel pretty gross, it also wouldn’t take long for us to develop dental problems. Many pet owners think that they can’t do anything to maintain their pets’ teeth, but they’re wrong. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and knowing the truth about your pets’ dental health can help you add years to their life.
Myth One: It’s Just Not That Important
In fact, the American Veterinary Dental Society estimates that more than 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats will develop gum disease before they’re three years old, because about two-thirds of pet owners do not maintain their pets’ teeth. At any age, plaque and tartar buildup on the surface of an animal’s teeth can cause gum disease, gingivitis, periodontal disease, abscesses, and other dental problems that can make a pet’s life miserable. If you have a purebred cat or dog, your pet’s teeth are particularly susceptible. Most vets recommend brushing a pet’s teeth at home every day and scheduling yearly cleanings at an animal hospital.
Myth Two: Dry Food Helps Keep a Pet’s Teeth Clean
It’s true that a pet’s diet is a big contributor to dental problems, and soft or wet foods tend to cause plaque buildup more quickly than dry food, but it’s wrong to think that dry food protects a pet’s mouth. Most cats and dogs don’t chew their food much, so there’s little opportunity for the dry food to successfully scrape the surface of their teeth clean, despite what food manufacturers claim. Special dental treats that require pets to chew and shred are beneficial for maintenance, but they can’t replace regular teeth cleaning.
Myth Three: Bad Dental Hygiene Causes Bad Breath Only
Although halitosis might be the most troublesome symptom for the owner, a pet feels much more painful effects of dental disease. Gingivitis can lead to swollen, tender gums that bleed easily. Advanced gum disease and periodontitis can lead to infections in the root of the affected tooth, eroding the socket and making the tooth loose. Trying to eat with wobbly, bleeding teeth is no fun for your pet. Just like in humans, the bacteria that multiplies when periodontal disease develops can eventually enter the body through abscessed teeth and open sores, traveling to organs like the heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs and causing other systemic infections, tumors, and diseases. Poor dental hygiene can take as many as five years off your pet’s life.
