Did you know that bad breath is often an early indication of dental disease? Poor oral health can lead to serious conditions like bacterial infections and problems with the heart, kidneys, joints, and intestinal tract. You can adopt preventive measures now and avoid serious problems down the road. Make sure your dog or cat gets regular dental check-ups and cleanings! Oral health is a vital part of your animal’s well-being.

You can promote oral health by regularly brushing your cat or dog’s teeth at home with a pet-safe toothpaste. If it’s difficult to use a toothbrush, you can squeeze the toothpaste on your finger and massage the teeth and gums. Start examining and brushing your pet’s teeth as early as possible. It’s best to start while they’re young so that they get accustomed to the routine!

Feed your pet a high-quality diet that supports healthy teeth and gums. Good nutrition is vital to overall well-being. Your veterinarian can recommend a diet which fits your pet’s unique needs.

Chew toys are a good way to promote healthy teeth and gums. Make sure your pets have a variety of toys to keep them busy and mentally stimulated. Avoid rope toys or stuffed toys because animals can rip the fabric and ingest fibers or small parts. Talk to your veterinarian about which toys are safest for your pet.

Throw your dog a bone…a raw bone that is. Raw bones can help keep the teeth clean and reduce bad breath. Make sure the bone isn’t so small that your dog can swallow or choke on it. It’s always a good idea to supervise your dog while he’s chomping on his raw bone.

Consider using a product called Healthy Mouth for your cat or dog. It’s an all-natural liquid solution that you simply add to your pet’s drinking water. It helps to prevent periodontal disease and is approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.

Remember good nutrition promotes a healthy mouth. In addition to providing a high-quality diet, you may consider supplementing with Omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics. Omega-3’s have an anti-inflammatory effect, while probiotics help to maintain healthy flora and improve digestion.