Keeping Your Pet's Teeth Clean to Prevent Bad Breath
Keeping your pet's teeth clean is essential not only for their oral health but also to prevent bad breath. As pet parents, we want to make sure our furry friends are healthy and happy, and a fresh-smelling breath is one sign of a healthy mouth. Here are some expert tips and products that can help you maintain your dog or cat's dental hygiene. For this post, I’ve teamed up with Dr. Kristen Scott, a Board-Certified veterinary dentist and oral surgeon, of Crown Veterinary Dental Specialists in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Brushing: The Gold Standard
Dr. Scott emphasizes that the most effective way to prevent bad breath and dental issues is regular brushing. Like us, pets benefit from daily brushing using a soft-bristle toothbrush. Depending on your pet’s size, choose a toothbrush that fits comfortably in their mouth—larger breeds like Great Danes will need a bigger brush, while smaller breeds like Chihuahuas will need a more delicate one.
Dr. Scott recommends using pet-friendly toothpaste. These are available in a variety of flavors, such as chicken and salmon, which can make brushing a positive experience for your pet. However, it’s essential never to use human toothpaste, as it can contain ingredients harmful to pets.
For Pet Parents Who Don’t Brush Daily: Dental Treats
If brushing isn’t feasible every day, dental treats are a great alternative. There are numerous dental treats on the market that are both effective and enjoyable for your pets. Two of Dr. Scott’s favorites are OraVet® Dental Hygiene Chews and C.E.T.® VeggieDent™ Fr3sh chews.
OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews are designed to reduce plaque and tartar while freshening breath. They have a unique consistency, making them a comfortable option for pets with missing teeth. The delmopinol in OraVet helps form a protective barrier to prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth, reducing plaque buildup and bad breath.
C.E.T. VeggieDent Fr3sh chews are a fantastic hypoallergenic option, especially for dogs with chicken allergies. These treats are formulated to reduce plaque and tartar and freshen breath while also being gentle on sensitive stomachs.
For cat owners, Greenies™ Dental Treats for Cats are popular. These crunchy treats help clean teeth while providing a tasty snack that cats enjoy. Another option is C.E.T. Intellident® Cat Bites, which are specifically designed to clean feline teeth and reduce plaque.
Water & Food Additives: A Simple Solution for Fresh Breath
For pets who are picky about brushing or dental treats, additives can be an excellent way to improve oral hygiene. One highly recommended product is Oxyfresh Pet Dental Water Additive. This solution is tasteless and odorless, making it easy to add to your pet’s water bowl without them noticing. It works by reducing bacteria in the mouth that cause bad breath.
Another effective option is ProDen PlaqueOff® Powder, which is an all-natural supplement. You simply sprinkle it on your pet’s food, and it works to reduce bacteria that lead to bad breath, plaque, and tartar. This product is a fantastic choice for both dogs and cats, especially for pets that are less tolerant of brushing.
Why Bad Breath Shouldn’t Be Ignored
While it’s common to think bad breath is normal for pets, Dr. Scott cautions that persistent bad breath can indicate more serious health problems, problems which are often hard to identify since most of the tooth structure lives below the gumline. Dental disease is widespread in both dogs and cats, and if left untreated, it can lead to more severe issues such as infections or even damage to organs like the heart or kidneys.
If your pet’s bad breath doesn’t improve with these at-home treatments, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian for a professional evaluation. They can assess whether your pet needs a dental cleaning or if there’s an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Summary: Dental Health is Key to Your Pet’s Overall Well-Being
Keeping your pet’s teeth clean and breath fresh is vital for their overall health. While brushing remains the most effective method, dental treats, water additives, and oral powders can also play a significant role in maintaining good oral hygiene. Whether you’re using OraVet Chews, VeggieDent Fr3sh, Oxyfresh, PlaqueOff Powder, or other vet-recommended products, they can provide convenient ways to manage dental care, even for the most finicky pets.
Remember, fresh breath isn’t just about the kisses—it’s a sign of a healthy pet. Make dental care a priority, and if bad breath persists, always follow up with your veterinarian. Your pet’s well-being depends on it!