Good teeth 'an important part of pet healthcare'

Tuesday, 2 February 2010 16:00

Pet health insurance shoppers may be interested in some tips on caring for their companion animals' teeth.

Veterinary technician Vicki McGonigal told the Burlington County Times that while professional cleaning and examination of the mouth should be carried out once a year, gnashers should be brushed by the owner three times a week if possible.

If that cannot be done, dental chews can also help reduce plaque.

She explained: "If teeth become filled with plaque, pets can get periodontal disease. That can lead to kidney, heart, liver and other health problems."

These issues can also cause pain and make it difficult for animals to eat normally.

Owners can tell if periodontal disease is present in their furry friends' mouths because there will be thick gray and black tartar on the teeth and bad breath.

If they see this, they should schedule an appointment with the vet.

The American Veterinary Medical Association estimated that periodontal disease is the most commonly diagnosed problem in dog and cats.

Animal Friends are a specialist pet insurance company providing dog insurance and cat insurance to British pet owners since 1999 and we now offer horse insurance too.

Posted by Elaine