February is Pet dental health Month

AddThis Sharing ButtonsShare to FacebookFacebookFacebookShare to TwitterTwitterTwitterShare to PinterestPinterestPinterestShare to MoreAddThisMore

February is finally here, and that means it’s time for kisses from your four-legged valentine. Coincidentally, it’s also national Pet dental health Month as coined by the AVMA. Now’s the perfect time to step up your pet’s dental health regimen for sweeter kisses by Valentine’s Day plus take our interactive quiz to find out the best dental care option for your pet and get an extra 25% off select dental products with code SMILE25.

Fresher breath isn’t the only benefit of good oral hygiene. regular brushing and the use of dental products can prevent uncomfortable dental diseases and reduce the strain of excess oral bacteria on your pet’s heart, kidneys, and liver.

Brushing your cat or dog’s teeth is the single most effective way to prevent dental disease. Plaque begins to form just hours after every meal, so daily brushing allows you to eliminate plaque before it hardens into tartar.

Once plaque has formed into tartar, which looks like hardened yellowish deposits on your pet’s teeth, it’s nearly impossible to remove without a professional cleaning.

Professional cleaning must be done under anesthesia. most dental disease forms under the gumline where you cannot see it, and your veterinarian may use x-rays to evaluate damage that might not be obvious to you.

Veterinarians recommend professional cleaning under anesthesia every 6 to 12 months. With daily brushing your pet may be able to go longer before cleanings.

Having trouble sticking to a daily brushing regimen? just 2% of dog owners and even fewer cat owners brush daily, so you’re not alone if you’re not able to make it work. even brushing just a few times per week can make a difference.

You may need to try a few different types of toothpaste to see which your pet likes best.

Oratene Enzymatic Brushless Toothpaste Gel  is a terrific choice for squirmy pets because it requires minimal brushing action, as it contains enzymes that naturally break down oral bacteria.

Arm & Hammer Tartar control comes in tasty flavors so your pet thinks it’s a treat.

You can also combine brushing with other methods to improve your pet’s dental hygiene.

Dental treats work best for eliminating buildup on hard-to-reach molars in the back of your pet’s mouth with the help of your pet’s natural chewing action. You might already know and love Greenies chews for your dog, but did you know they also make dental treats for cats?

Water additives are easy to use, just add the tasteless liquid to your pet’s water bowl to help clean their teeth every time they drink. Be Fresh dental care solution kills bacteria that causes dental disease. Oratene Brushless Oral care Water Additive contains enzymes that help keep bacteria from sticking to your pet’s teeth.

Even with daily care, it’s important that your vet examines your pet’s mouth at least once a year and helps you decide when and if professional cleaning is the best choice for them.

Throughout the whole month of February, PetMeds is offering an extra 25% off select dental products found here! Make sure to use coupon code SMILE25 in cart! If you’re having trouble picking out a dental product for your pet, take our interactive quiz here to find out the best option for you and your pet!