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Dental disease is extremely common in dogs, cats and horses. As many of 70% of cats are estimated to have dental problems and nearly as much in dogs. The disease process in dogs and cats begins with bacteria in the mouth laying a template for plaque to form. Layers of plaque become cement like (tartar) and appear as yellow-brown or black deposits (which are painful) on the surface of the teeth. If this is left untreated, tartar can progress to gum retraction, loose teeth and abcessation. Other major complications that can arise from dental health include heart valve plaques, septicaemia, pneumonia, kidney, liver and brain disease.
What can be done to prevent this?
Daily brushing
Special pet toothpaste must be used but normal tooth brushes or finger brushes can be used. (We do it for our own teeth so why not do it for our pets?
RAW bones
If your pet can tolerate them (not recommended for some small breed dogs prone to pancreatitis or gastroenteritis). The Australian Veterinary Association after an extensive review of pet dietary requirements, recommends feeding RAW bones at least 3 times a week (in conjunction with a nutritionally complete diet like a premium pet food).
Abraisive dry food
Prescription food like Hills t/d is a nutritionally complete premium dry food that has all the nutritional parts on the outside with a hard core inside. Since the kibbles are quite large, the dog/cat must chew them up to swallow and in the process cleans its teeth. Recommended for uncooperative pets that wont allow brushing of the teeth and those pets that can't tolerate bones.
What if my dog/cat already has tartar?
Ultrasonic scaling and polishing of the teeth under general anaesthetic is required to return good oral health and prevention of recurrence can begin. For those pets that have a particular recurring problem we have introduced low cost dentals. Only for those pets with first stage dental disease (minor plaque & tartar) - starting from $150 all inclusive of the anesthetic, hospitalization, antibiotic & pain killer injections for cats & small dogs).
Horses?
Equine teeth constantly grow and produce sharp edges. Regular raspin is required to avoid complications such as impaction colic and weight loss.
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