Pets need to have healthy teeth too. Unlike adults, pets do not go to the dentist on a regular basis for tooth cleanings and check-ups, and it is up to their owner’s to make sure that a pet’s teeth are in healthy shape. At the veterinarian, a pet physician may complete a teeth cleaning or check an animal’s teeth and find that they are not in the best of shape. Because pet owners often forget to brush their pet’s teeth for them, you may want to consider putting your animal on a special dental diet. If a veterinarian suggests that you put your animal on a diet that will be beneficial for his or her teeth, it is wisest to comply.

Some breeds of dogs and cats have a tougher problem with tartar buildup and bad breath. Tartar comes from plaque which builds up in the animal’s teeth. If it is removed frequently with a brush while still s0oft, then the animal will more than likely have a healthy mouthful of teeth. Yet when owners fail to brush their animal’s teeth and instead allow that pet to build up more and more plaque, it will harden and turn into tartar. This can cause irritation to the gingiva or the gums, and this will lead to tissue loss as the years go on. At this point, the tartar can only be removed with dental instruments, so if your pet has a significant amount of tartar buildup you will need to make an appointment at your local vet.

If you feel like you are taking your pet to the vet all too often for dental work, then it may be best to put your animal on a dental diet. The Veterinary Oral Health Council has done extensive study on different foods and treats that will help reduce plaque on an animal’s teeth. The council has then given their seal of approval to some of the products that meet their high standards for cats and dogs. If you go to your local pet store or supermarket, you can look for products that have a VOHC accepted sticker or logo and purchase these in order to enhance your pet’s dental health.

These foods are only featured if they are balanced and they are capable of cleaning teeth. Normally, the foods with the VOHC stamp of approval are hard kibble products and have fibrous textures that allow the kibble to scrub at the surfaces of an animal’s teeth as he or she chews. Some of the foods also have a coating which will help to reduce dental plaque. You can also discuss dental health choices with your veterinarian and ask him or her for suggestions on pet foods that will clean your animal’s teeth. Because dental diets are normally nutritionally balanced, they can typically replace a pet’s typical mealtime kibble. They should not be the main nutritional source for any animals that have specific medical needs and puppies may need additional foods with other nutrients which will help their growing bodies.

Whether you use these dental diet foods as a supplement or a main food source for your dog, chances are that you will be able to help improve your pet’s oral health as a result. There are also many treats that are approved the VOHC and may be able to help you. Before you switch your pet to a dental diet, you may want to discuss the prospect with a local vet. Also, keep in mind that switching to a dental diet isn’t enough to keep you from having to brush your pet’s teeth. Some pets may need professional teeth cleaning or constant brushing because of breed aspects. When your pet is on a dental diet, it is also important to remember that you should not feed your animal table scraps or any human food. This will defeat the purpose of a dental diet. Talk to a local veterinarian if you need any more information!