Common dental diseases in pets: What pet owners should know

Sometimes the softest kitties and the most loyal dogs aren't quite so gentle or faithful when dental pain is the order of the day. Yes, you read that right-our furry friends can suffer from dental disease just like us humans. Common dental conditions in pets are often silently ignored until the pain becomes unbearable. But since you're a responsible pet owner, it's worth taking a closer look at the most common dental conditions in dogs and cats and how you can intervene before it's too late.

Why dental diseases in pets often go unnoticed

It really is a thing with our four-legged friends and their teeth: although they would have the ability to complain eloquently about their pain, they rarely do. Many pet owners don't realise that their pets are suffering from dental disease because the symptoms often start subtly and animals instinctively hide their pain. But whoops! If Fido despises his food or Kitty suddenly becomes antisocial, it could be more than just a case of bad table manners.

The most common dental diseases in pets

• Periodontitis: This insidious disease often begins innocuously with inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). Bacterial growth under the gum line eventually leads to destruction of the periodontium. Smaller dog breeds are particularly at risk, but cats do not avoid it either.
• Tartar: A little bit of tartar is harmless at first, but if this stubborn plaque can't be removed, it can turn your cat or dog's home into an odour-filled nightmare dining room. This nastiness favours the development of periodontitis and other infections.
• Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums is often the first indication that something is wrong. Red, swollen gums and bleeding are common symptoms that require immediate intervention.
• Resorptive lesions: These tend to occur mainly in cats and are similar to tooth decay in humans. Dangerous and painful, they gradually dissolve tooth enamel and dentine and can lead to tooth loss.
• Broken teeth: Some animals' enthusiasm for chewing stones or super-hard chew bones can lead to broken teeth. Ouch! These fractures provide open doors for bacteria to invade the dental nerves and cause pain.

How do you recognise dental disease in pets?

As mentioned earlier, our pets prefer to be stoic, but still give subtle hints of dental pain if you look closely:

1. Bad breath: The proverbial breath of a dragon? Tartar or developing infections could be the culprits.
2. Feeding difficulties: Sudden loss of appetite or inability to chew hard food are red flags.
3. Bleeding gums: Traces of blood in the water bowl or after eating could be a sign of gum problems.
4. Changes in behaviour: Aggression, withdrawal and changes in play behaviour can indicate pain.
5. Salivation: Excessive drooling can mean that something is wrong.

Prevention and care: How to keep your pet's teeth healthy

Of course, a visit to the vet is a must, but there are a number of measures you can take to prevent dental disease:

• Regular tooth cleaning: Yes, your pets need toothbrushes too! There are special brushes and toothpastes for pets.
• Tooth inspection: Make it a habit to check your pet's teeth and gums regularly.
• Chewing articles: Dental care chews and treats can help prevent plaque and tartar, but nothing that looks like a brick, please!
• Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet not only contributes to general health, but also to good dental health.
• Regular visits to the vet: Your vet can recognise dental problems much earlier. The annual check-up should therefore not be neglected.

When dental disease strikes: Treatment options

Of course, prevention is golden, but what if the damage is already done? Here are some common treatment options:

• Tartar removal: This is usually done under anaesthetic; the vet removes tartar and can treat any affected teeth.
• Antibiotics: In the case of infections, antibiotics are often prescribed to kill bacteria and alleviate inflammation.
• Extractions: Sometimes teeth can no longer be saved and have to be removed.
• Periodontal therapy: In the case of more serious findings, specific treatment may be necessary to get deeper dental diseases under control.

Prevent dental diseases and live with a radiant smile

So, dear pet lovers, now you know a lot about common dental diseases in pets and how to deal with them. A little care here, a little mindfulness there, and your furry companion can bounce through life with a healthy smile and teeth that don't cause pain. It's worth going the extra mile for your pet's dental health-and with a smile!

Now that you know the basics, it really is child's play to keep your furry friend on their toes. You know what they say: a clean mouth makes pets happy (and pet owners too)!

FAQs

What are the most common dental diseases?

A: The most common dental diseases in pets include periodontitis, caries, gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), pulpitis (inflammation of the pulp), inflammation of the tooth roots, exposed tooth necks, jaw cysts and bruxism (grinding or clenching of the teeth).

How common are dental problems in cats?

A: Dental disease is very common in cats. Studies show that approximately 75% of all cats suffer from dental disease (according to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 14th Annual Veterinary Dental Forum).

How often do dogs have dental problems?

A: Over 80 per cent of adult dogs suffer from diseases of the dental apparatus and gums (periodontal disease) that require treatment and are mainly characterised by an unpleasant mouth odour.