Dental disease is one of the most common pet problems, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Know about your pet’s oral hygiene and prevent problems with these 10 dental facts.
- A puppy’s teeth come in at three to four weeks old. They have 28 baby teeth and will develop up to 42 permanent teeth as they reach adulthood.
- A kitten has 26 baby teeth and an adult cat has 30 permanent teeth.
- A horse’s teeth can be divided into two main categories. Incisors at the front tear grass, and the premolars and molars, that grind food down before swallowing.
- A rabbit’s teeth break down tough, fibrous foods, such as grasses, weeds, twigs and leaves. Because of this constant wear, rabbit teeth are open-rooted and continuously grow throughout their lives.
- Dental disease in pets starts with a buildup of bacteria causing plaque. As a bacterium grows in the plaque, the plaque turns into tartar.
- A diet designed to remove plaque and tartar can help manage your pet’s dental health.
- Signs of poor dental health include: bad breath, painful mouth, difficulty eating, reduced appetite, tooth loss, pawing at the mouth, bleeding gums, yellow or brown tartar on teeth and increased drooling.
- Poor dental health can lead to tooth loss and serious health problems, such as damage to the heart, liver and kidneys.
- Aggressive chewing on hard objects is a primary cause of broken teeth in dogs.
- All pets should have regular dental checks and treatment if required.
Your pet’s dental health is important. Home management and regular appointments with your vet will help keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy throughout their lives.
