Many pet owners don’t think about it, but their animal companions need dental care just as much as humans do. That’s why annual dental examinations are so important. When your pet’s teeth and gums are being checked by a professional regularly, it will be easier to catch and treat problems before they worsen. You may want to bring in your pet earlier if they display any of these warning signs that they have an underlying dental health issue.
Bad breath
Many pet owners believe that it’s natural for pets to have bad breath, however, bad breath can often be a warning sign of a health problem such as gum disease or disease under the gumline. When these issues are left untreated, they can lead to serious complications impacting not only your pet’s teeth but also damaging internal organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Reluctance to eat
If your pet is refusing to eat their regular food—or if they are eating less than usual—then don’t assume that they’re just being finicky. Reduced appetite, refusal to eat, and abnormal chewing are all signs that your pet may have an underlying dental problem.
Drooling
Drooling or dropping food from the mouth is often a symptom of gum disease or another dental problem. While some dogs may drool often if your pet is drooling more than usual it can indicate oral problems that your veterinarian will be able to diagnose and treat.
If you think that your cat or dog may have a dental problem, then it’s time to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian near you. Town and Country Animal Hospital offers routine dental exams and cleanings to put your mind at ease—and to keep your pet in good health! Call us at 503-761-2330 for more information today!