Brush, floss, and get regular dental checkups—we all know the importance of great oral health care. But what about your furry friend’s teeth? Maintaining your dog or cat’s dental health is a vital part of overall pet wellness. If you can’t remember the last time you took your pet into a veterinary hospital in Richmond for a checkup, here are our top reasons why you need to make dental care a top priority.
DON’T IGNORE BAD BREATH!
Think bad breath is just a normal part of being a pet? Think again. Cats and dogs are notorious for not-so-pleasant-smelling breath. But your pet’s putrid panting could be a sign of a much more serious problem.
Bacteria that causes foul-smelling breath could lead to major dental health issues down the road, like plaque buildup, gum disease, and even tooth loss. If your pet’s breath is hexed by halitosis, bring them into a veterinary hospital for a dental checkup as soon as possible.
PERIODONTAL DISEASE IS A COMMON DENTAL CONDITION IN PETS.
Did you know that most cats and dogs over the age of 3 have some level of periodontal disease? Plaque buildup is not only a dental issue humans experience—pets get it too! And just like us, plaque can turn into tartar that creates harmful bacteria, causing a host of problems, including periodontal disease and chronic oral pain.
Don’t let your furry friend suffer with this common condition. Getting regular dental checkups and cleanings will go a long way to preventing periodontal disease, advanced gum disease, and tooth loss.
DENTAL PROBLEMS CAN AFFECT MORE THAN JUST YOUR PET’S TEETH.
When it comes to dental issues, there is a lot more at stake than just good oral health for your pets. Dental disease can lead to a host of severe health issues.
Harmful bacteria in your pet’s mouth can get into the blood stream and travel to other parts of the body. Over time, bacteria can reach vital organs, affecting the liver, kidneys, and heart. For optimal overall health, make sure to bring your pet in for professional cat and dog dental care at a veterinary hospital in Richmond.
Has your pet been acting strange? Are they ignoring their food? Unlike humans, dogs and cats can’t tell you something’s wrong. If you’ve noticed unusual behavior in your furry friend, bring your cat or dog in to see a qualified Richmond vet to investigate the problem further.
Dental issues can be serious, but fortunately for you and your pet, they are preventable. Taking your pet to a veterinary hospital for regular checkups will help them live a long and happy life.
For a trusted veterinary hospital in Richmond, contact Island Veterinary Hospital today!
Our Richmond animal hospital is AAHA Accredited and ready to serve you and your pets needs.