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Signs You Might Need To Check Your Pet's Oral Health
Your pet’s health means everything to you, we understand, and keeping your furry friend in tip-top shape means a healthy diet, regular exercise, and getting plenty of cuddles. One area you may be overlooking, though, is your pet’s oral health.
Checking your pet’s dental hygiene is important for their overall health. But how do you know when it’s time to take a closer look at their teeth and gums? Let’s take a look at the signs that it’s time for a dental checkup for your best mate.
8 Signs that it’s time for a dental checkup for your best mate.
1. Bad breath: When it’s more than bothersome
We’ve all had that moment when our pet gives us a big, sloppy lick, and we pull away from the bad breath. While it might seem like a minor annoyance, bad breath can be a sign of poor pet oral health. If your pet’s breath smells more like a rubbish tip than a rose garden, it’s time to book a dental appointment. Bad breath can be a sign of bacteria buildup, periodontal disease or even more serious health issues.
2. Discoloured Teeth and Gums
A healthy smile isn’t just for humans. Check your pet’s teeth regularly for any signs of discolouration. Brown or yellow stains on your pet’s teeth mean plaque and tartar buildup. Healthy gums should be pink and firm. If you notice any redness, swelling or bleeding, it’s time to give us a call. Regular brushing and professional cleanings will keep those pearly whites in top shape.
3. Drooling and Licking at the Mouth
While some pets are natural droolers, excessive drooling can be a sign that something is wrong with your pet’s oral health. Pets pawing at their mouths is typically a sign of discomfort caused by chewing and could be an indicator of a more serious dental issue that needs your attention since dental disease or injury may be the cause. Don’t let your pet suffer in silence – it’s time for a checkup.
4. Changes in Eating Habits
Snack time is a favourite for many a furry friend, but is your precious four-legged bundle turning up its nose at its bowl? A sudden change in eating habits is a red flag for many conditions, but as far as your pet’s oral health is concerned, it’s a red flag you can’t afford to ignore. If your pet is avoiding chewing hard food, they may be suffering from dental pain. Left untreated, this can lead to weight loss and other health issues. It’s best to get ahead of any potential oral health issue as early as possible and consult with your vet to maintain your pet’s quality of life.k
5. Visible Growths or Lumps
Lumps and bumps in your pet’s mouth should never be ignored. These growths could be benign but may also be a sign of tumours or infections. Check your pet’s mouth regularly for any unusual growths and have them examined by a vet. Early detection is key to treatment and can prevent more serious health issues down the track.
6. Difficulty or Reluctance to Play
Play is a natural and fun activity for pets. If your normally energetic fur baby suddenly seems idle and doesn’t seem as keen to play, especially with their favourite chew toys, it could also be a sign of toothache or worse since pets only avoid playing with toys that hurt them. Make sure your pet’s teeth and gums are healthy so they can have fun as much as possible again.
7. Swollen Face or Jaw
A swollen face or jaw can be a sign of an abscessed tooth or other dental infections. If you notice any swelling around your pet’s face or jaw, it’s time to get to the vet. Dental abscesses are very painful and, if left untreated, can lead to more serious health issues. Your vet can provide the treatment to relieve your pet’s pain and get their oral health back on track.
8. Excessive Chewing on Objects
While chewing is a natural behaviour for pets, especially dogs, excessive or obsessive chewing can be a sign that something is wrong. Pets may chew on objects more if they are trying to relieve discomfort in their mouth. If you notice your pet is chewing more than usual, it’s worth checking their teeth and gums for any signs of trouble. Provide chew toys and regular dental checkups to keep their teeth healthy and strong.
Regular Checkups: The Key to Healthy Teeth
Just like humans, pets benefit from regular dental checkups. These checkups allow your vet to catch any issues early and provide preventative care to maintain your pet’s oral health. Professional cleanings combined with a good at-home dental care routine can make a big difference to your pet’s quality of life and prevent serious health issues.
Your pet’s oral health is vital for keeping their overall health in check, so being aware of signs that your furry friend may be suffering from a dental condition is incredibly important. Noticing these conditions before they get worse can make all the difference, and we’d be more than happy to help!
If you have any questions or think your pet could use a checkup, book an appointment with us today. We’ll get your furry friend’s chompers back to their best so they can get back to fully enjoying their favourite snacks and playful adventures!