Periodontal Disease in Dogs and Cats
What is Periodontal Disease in Dogs and Cats?
Periodontal disease is a common clinical condition in both dogs and cats, but it is easily preventable. Evidence shows that over 80% of dogs and cats exhibit some level of periodontal disease by age three. This disease can be serious as studies have shown that bacteria from dental disease can possibly move into vital organs, causing heart and kidney disease. Therefore, taking good care of your pet’s teeth is crucial to their overall health.
What is Cat and Dog Periodontal Disease?
Similar to people, food particles and bacteria will accumulate along your pet’s gums, causing tartar and plaque buildup on the teeth. If not taken care of properly, this can lead to gum inflammation and infection (gingivitis), tooth loss, dental disease, and possibly further health complications.
Gum Disease in Dogs and Cats Symptoms
The common signs of periodontal disease in dogs and cats include bad breath, red and swollen gums, loose teeth, irritability, drooling, and gums that bleed easily. Because it can often hurt to eat, dogs and cats may lose their appetite and eat less, resulting in weight loss.
Cat and Dog Periodontal Disease Treatment
There is no specific cure for periodontal disease, so the goal of treatment is to control the infection and stop the progression of the disease. Treatment starts with removing the plaque from the teeth in order to determine the severity of the disease and the course of treatment. If the disease is in an early stage, treatment is focused on controlling plaque buildup. If the disease has progressed to a later stage, the next steps of treatment may include the complete cleaning of the gums or the removal of teeth. All options of treatment are considered invasive and painful, so prevention is very important.
How Can You Prevent Periodontal Disease in Dogs and Cats?
Because periodontal disease is irreversible, prevention is key to protecting your pet’s oral and overall health. Although dental care may seem like a big task, it doesn’t have to be. Taking a few steps can make a big difference in your pet’s oral health.
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