Periodontal disease is the most commonly diagnosed preventable disease in dogs and cats. By age three, nearly 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats have some form of dental disease, which can lead to more severe health problems.
There are strong links between gum disease and heart disease in humans and animals, so prevention is the key.
Your veterinarian can spot signs of dental disease during your annual wellness exam, and provide you with treatment options. In between exams, here’s a couple of things you can look for on your own:
Get down on their level. Flip the lip. Take a close look at the REAL condition of their teeth.
Are their gums pink and healthy, or red and inflamed?
Can you see discolorations on the teeth or at the gum line?
Is there evidence of any loose, cracked, or broken teeth?
We’re betting there’s a lot more going on in there than you realized. Luckily, it’s National Pet Dental Health Month, so pet parents can save $50 off a dental cleaning for Fido or Fluffy at any AZPetVet location. We’ll even help you create a simple, regular home care plan for keeping doggy and kitty grins brighter.