Most dogs and cats don’t mind letting their owners take a look inside their mouth to look at the teeth. First, look at your pets face. Both sides should match. Look for any abnormal swellings. When you look at your pets head, try to feel the glands under the neck. Both should be the same size. Next, raise the lips and look at the teeth and gums. If you see any areas that are red, swollen, discolored or find broken teeth, it’s time to check with your vet. Cats are especially prone to painful cavities which occur at the gum line. Finally, take a whiff of your pet’s breath. If it doesn’t smell like roses, a trip to your vet is in order.

Home dental preventative care is the best gift you can give your pet. Without daily brushing, plaque will form at the area where the gum meets the tooth. In time, plaque will attract calcium salts and calculus forms. The plaque and calculus irritates the gum tissue leading to gingivitis and periodontal disease. Gingivitis, if treated early, can be cured. Periodontal disease can be controlled, but not cured. Daily brushing is the key. Brushing can be easy if you take a piece of gauze, wrap it around your index finger, dip it in a few drops of chicken broth or for cats tuna juice and gently rub around the outer surfaces of upper and lower gum line. The upper teeth attract the most plaque, so spend more time there. Pet toothpastes and toothbrushes are available at your vet’s office. A human baby tooth brush can also be used.

Natural Remedies are helpful for dental care in dogs and cats. It’s always a good idea to check with your vet before giving them to your pet.

Vitamin C: used to decrease swelling, aid in the care of periodontal disease, and decrease pain

Myrrh: soothes inflamed gum tissues. Can be applied with a q-tip when mixed with distilled water

Echinacea: helpful in periodontal therapy

Arnica: can be given before and after oral surgery

Calendula Lotion: can be used to soothe ulcers in the mouth and promote healing

Fragraria: may be helpful in preventing the buildup of tartar given every other month

Chamonilla: can be used to decrease puppy and kitten teething as well as chewing on furniture

Hypericum: decrease oral pain

For more information on your pet’s health log onto veterinarian, Dr. Carol Osborne’s web site at www.drcarol.com or call toll free 1-866-372-2765.