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Mouthing Off:
Detecting Oral Issues

 

All praises to the day pets across America sidle up to their owners and say, "Hey, my mouth is on fire here. Do something will ya!"

Well, until that day comes, it's up to us to check our pets' mouths regularly for potential dental health issues.

It all starts with the gums looking almost red, and some of the teeth coated with tartar. When it comes to your pet's mouth, don't take anything for granted. When you examine your pet, slowly open his mouth with your fingers and ask yourself the following questions:

Does his breath smell like he just raided a rotten fish market?

Are any of his canines or molars discolored (gray, brown or green)? (Keep in mind that a pet's teeth may be yellow due to early antibiotics like tetracycline—totally normal.)

Are his gums swollen and bright pink or angry red like a lobster with a sunburn? Note that normal colored gums should be light to medium pink. For some dark colored cats and dogs, gums may be gray.

  


Do you see any sores on the gums, particularly if you have a cat? They'll look like craters on the top or bottom gum or lip.

Are his bottom teeth worn down like the soles of a shoe?

Do you see any swelling or sores on his face around the lips, under the eyes or nose? Bad teeth can result in a manifestation of external sores.

If you have a puppy or a kitten, do you see any double teeth?

Is he drooling like a newborn? Keep in mind that some dogs always drool, like the St. Bernard. If your pet is experiencing excessive drooling but doesn't usually, it could indicate some problem.

Has he lost weight recently as a result of not eating enough?

It's also important to observe your pet's behavior as far as food is concerned. Has your pet been approaching his food bowl reluctantly? Has he been eating slower than usual and has he exhibited trouble biting hard things? Does your dog or cat cry during or after eating? Does your cat have the tendency to pick up food, spit it out, pick it up again and finally throw it to the back with his tongue?

If you've nodded your head to two or more of any of the questions above, then it's clear that your pet has some dental health issues! You must take your pet to your veterinarian right away for an oral examination.

 
HealthyPetNet to the Rescue!
In the spirit of National Pet Dental Month, it's time for pet owners across America to look in the mirror and ask themselves: what am I doing to maintain my pet's oral balance? Are you in the habit of brushing your pet's teeth? If so, how often? If not, why not? If you don't brush, what other ways do you provide some form of daily care?

Good oral hygiene is a daily commitment whether it's through brushing, feeding healthy hard foods, good treats, safe bones or other methods.
 

 If your pets were in the wild, they would be getting plenty of dental action tearing apart their prey, bones included. But, they're not in the wild. They are under our care.

Though we highly recommend brushing your pet's teeth at least twice a week, we understand that many people are not able to fulfill such an obligation, especially if you have a cat. HPN is here to help. Though there is no substitute for brushing, we have a vast array of oral health products that can enhance your daily oral routine.
 

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February 2006 Issue

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