How to brush your pet’s teeth.
Just like in humans, dental care is an important part of your pet’s overall health. Follow this guide to help keep their chompers sparkling white at home.
1. Start brushing you pet’s teeth early
8 to 12 weeks old is best. If you brush every day, your pet will become familiar with the routine when their permanent teeth erupt. You may need to stop brushing while your pet loses her baby teeth. Your pet’s mouth will be a bit sore and handling may cause more pain. Continue once all permanent teeth come in.
2. Work with your pet’s mouth
Be patient and make it fun. Use love and praise, and try to practice at the same time each day to establish a routine. Choose a quiet time, such as late in the evening. Or, if your pet is highly motivated by food, try just before dinner so they feel rewarded for their co-operation.
3. Handle your pet’s muzzle and touch the lips
Work up to rubbing the teeth and gums with your finger. Put a few drops of water flavored with low-sodium chicken or beef bouillon for dogs and tuna juice for cats in your pet’s mouth and she’ll begin to look forward to these sessions.
4. Rub the teeth gently
Rub the teeth gently with a bouillon, or tuna flavoured cloth or a piece of gauze wrapped around the end of your finger.
5. Use a finger brush
Finally, use a finger brush or a soft pet or human toothbrush to brush the teeth using the bouillon water or tuna juice. Hold the brush at a 45 degree angle to the tooth and brush gently back and forth or in a circular pattern from gum to tip. Brushing the tongue side of the teeth is less critical, but still good. Offer rewards and treats when your pet allows you to brush.
6. Consider other dental aids
We have a selection of veterinary toothpastes, oral rinses, and gels available which can enhance your home care program, daily brushing is best. Our team can help you select the right one for you and your pet.
Avoid human toothpaste because fluoride and detergents can be harmful if swallowed.
Hydrogen peroxide can be harsh on the gums and shouldn’t be swallowed either.
Baking soda has a high sodium content and should be avoided in older pets.
7. Choose kibble & toys that will help keep their teeth clean
Avoid natural bones, which are hard enough to fracture teeth. Our veterinary team can recommend a complete and balanced professional diet to use at feeding time and as a treat.