Cat and Dog Teeth Cleaning in Colma, CA
By age 3, more than 60% of all dogs and cats have some form of gum disease. Colma Animal Hospital wants to prevent your pet from becoming part of this statistic, which is why we offer dentistry services. We also advise you to bring your pet in at least once a year for a comprehensive wellness exam that includes a check of the mouth. If we detect tartar build up, swollen gums, or other problems, we may recommend a diagnostic exam and thorough cat or dog teeth cleaning, as these may be signs of periodontal disease.
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Do Pets REALLY Need Dental Care?
This is a question that many pet owners ask themselves because many don’t understand how the health of the mouth is an indicator of the health of the entire body. Gum disease can lead to kidney, liver, and heart disease, if left untreated. It can also make your pet very uncomfortable and leave them in pain. That’s why it’s important to maintain your pet’s oral health from home and arrange for professional cat or dog teeth cleaning as needed. This can help improve your pet’s oral and overall health, lengthening their lifespan.
Our Dog and Cat Dental Services
All pet dental procedures performed at Colma Animal Hospital are performed under anesthesia, for the safety of our patients. Prior to administering anesthesia, we analyze a small blood sample to ensure that your pet is healthy enough for dental care. We offer full monitoring throughout the entire dental procedure—until your pet leaves our care. We also administer pain medications to keep them comfortable after treatment.
Below is the step-by-step process of what a standard pet dental examination/cleaning consists of at our animal hospital:
Brushing Your Dog and Cat’s Teeth
As a pet owner, you play a critical role in your dog or cat’s dental care. Since we only see your companion once or twice a year, it’s up to you to maintain their oral health between those visits. It’s best to establish an at-home dental care regimen for your pet when they’re young. Just as you do for yourself, try brushing your pet’s teeth on a daily basis, if possible. For tips on choosing a toothbrush and toothpaste and on brushing, see below.
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Choosing a Toothbrush
Choosing a good toothbrush and toothpaste is obviously the first step in brushing your pet’s teeth. Buy a brush in accordance with the size of your pet’s mouth; use bigger brushes for large breeds and smaller brushes for smaller breeds. There are many different kinds of teeth-cleaning products available for dogs and cats, including special dental sponges, so choose the one that works best for you and your pet.
Choosing a Toothpaste
Just like toothbrushes, there are many toothpaste options for pets. Since pets will likely end up ingesting most of the paste during brushing, use only pet toothpaste. You can choose from a variety of flavors, including chicken, beef, seafood, and mint. Unless you already know what your pet’s favorite is, based on their diet, you may have to experiment with a few flavors to determine which one is best.
Tips on Brushing Your Dog and Cat's Teeth
The first time you brush your pet’s teeth, take your time. Gradually introduce your pet to the toothbrush and reward them with a treat during the process. Make sure your pet is used to having their mouth handled before you begin brushing. If necessary, dip your fingers in chicken broth before you touch their mouth. When your pet is comfortable, you can begin brushing, but the process involves several preliminary steps before you can thoroughly brush the teeth.
The Colma Animal Hospital team would be happy to answer any questions you have about brushing your pet’s teeth and make recommendations for dental products, like chews and toys that are designed to prevent tartar build up. Schedule your pet's appointment today! Call us at (650) 756-1753 or click the button below.