Most first-time pet owners don’t give a lot of thought to an animal’s dental care, other than buying a specialty treat advertised to improve their pet’s breath. However, that bad breath could be an indicator of something more serious, and it would be worth having your veterinarian check it out.
If you haven’t thought about your pet’s dental care before now, or perhaps you’re wondering if they have a toothache. There are signs to look for before making an appointment. Since dogs are masters at hiding pain, you should pay close attention to these symptoms: decreased interest in eating dry food or hard treats, chewing more slowly than usual, or on one side of the mouth, difficulty picking up food or dropping food from the mouth while chewing, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, vocalizing while eating, new or worsening resistance to having the face/mouth touched.
Like dogs, cats are experts at hiding their pain; by the time your cat shows any signs, their dental issue is probably very advanced. Some indicators that your cat is suffering from oral pain include difficulty eating or loss of appetite, drooling, chattering (jaw shakes or quivers) when they eat or groom, pawing at their mouth, excessive teeth grinding or yawning, head shaking or tilting, decreasing their grooming, pulling away when touched or petted near the mouth, and any changes in normal behavior such as becoming more aggressive.
New owners of kittens and puppies should start taking care of their teeth and gums now and make it part of the daily routine. Taking a proactive approach to oral healthcare will keep the teeth and gums healthy for years to come.
There are several methods of brushing your pet’s teeth at home, either daily or at least twice weekly. You can purchase a rubber toothbrush or finger glove, or simply wrap a piece of gauze around your finger and dip it in fluoride-free toothpaste. There are several specially formulated treats, dental sprays, and water additives on the market to help remove plaque, control tartar buildup, and freshen the breath. By scheduling a yearly dental exam, we can help you maintain your fur baby’s dental health.
At Topanga Veterinary Clinic, we understand the importance of dental health in pets, especially as they age. Dogs and cats, much like humans, are prone to plaque and tartar buildup, leading to periodontal disease. To combat this, we offer comprehensive dental cleanings using advanced water scalers, effectively removing plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth.
During the routine procedure, your pet will be safely under anesthesia, allowing us to thoroughly clean their teeth. For pets over 5 years old, we require pre-anesthetic blood work to ensure they are fit for anesthesia. This approach is essential for a deep and effective cleaning, as anesthesia-free cleanings don’t allow for the same level of thoroughness and can miss significant dental issues.
Our priority is your pet’s health and comfort, and our dental services are designed to prevent gum diseases and maintain optimal oral health, contributing to your pet’s overall well-being. At Topanga Veterinary Clinic, we believe in the power of prevention. Regular check-ups are crucial in maintaining your pet’s health and catching potential issues early.
Our approach to pet care is both professional and personalized. Whether it’s a routine visit or an emergency, our experienced veterinarians and staff are committed to providing individualized care to each animal. We tailor our treatment plans to suit the specific condition and health requirements of your pet, ensuring the most effective and compassionate care.
We offer a comprehensive range of veterinary services six days a week, and we are equipped to handle both routine and emergency cases, ensuring that your pet receives the appropriate care when it matters the most. Our team of veterinarians and support staff are not only highly skilled and experienced but also passionate about animals. We stay abreast of the latest developments in veterinary medicine to ensure that your pet receives the best possible care.
Topanga Veterinary Clinic is more than just a clinic; it’s a part of the Chatsworth community. We take pride in our role in keeping the pets of our community healthy and happy.
We invite you to experience the compassionate, professional care that Topanga Veterinary Clinic offers. Let us be a part of your pet’s journey towards a healthy, happy life.