Oral health & hygiene

For cats, there is a special dental condition called FORL (Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions) which is very painful. It involves the breakdown of teeth, usually the molars, and there is no known cure for the disease. Treatment involves either extracting the affected teeth completely or cutting off just the crown if the root has started to grow into the jawbone. Regular check-ups are important to monitor for any complications and detect new affected teeth.

Symptoms of dental problems

• Yellowish or brown deposits on the teeth
• Inflamed gums, you can see a dark red line near the gums that may bleed
• Bad breath
• Increased salivation
• Loose teeth
• Soreness in the mouth
• Difficulty eating, where the animal may only chew on one side of the mouth

To prevent dental problems in your pet, there are some important steps you can take:

• Toothbrushing: Brushing your dog's teeth every day with a soft toothbrush and special toothpaste for dogs or cats is the most effective way to prevent plaque and tartar.
• Special food: There are special foods that have larger pieces of food that help mechanically clean the teeth when the animal chews. Dry food is better than soft food for preventing tartar.
• Chewing bones: Give your dog chewing bones, which can help mechanically clean the teeth.

To detect and treat dental problems in your pet, it is important to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian. Treatments may include professional teeth cleaning under anesthesia, tooth extractions, and other dental procedures.