Clinic Hours

Mon-Tue-Fri: 9am-5pm
Wed-Thur: 9am-12pm
Saturday-Sunday: Closed

Moore Veterinary Care

Clinic Hours

Mon-Tue-Fri: 9am – 5pm
Wed-Thur: 9am – 12pm
Saturday-Sunday: Closed

February is here, and that means it’s National Pet Dental Health Month! While we often focus on keeping our pets active and well-fed, their dental health is just as important. Poor oral hygiene can lead to serious health problems, including gum disease, tooth loss, and even systemic infections affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. To help your furry friend maintain a bright, healthy smile, here are some essential pet dental care tips from Moore Veterinary Care!

1. Brush Their Teeth Regularly

Just like humans, pets benefit from daily toothbrushing. There are many different ways you can brush your pet’s teeth! You can use a pet-specific toothbrush with soft bristles, or stop by Moore Veterinary Care to check out our dental wipes or dental mitts to make daily cleanings a breeze! Also use a pet safe toothpaste—never human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients that can be toxic to animals. 

Start slow, using a small amount of toothpaste on your finger or a soft brush, and gradually increase brushing sessions. Brush along the gum at a 45º angle for optimal cleaning!

2. Provide Dental Chews & Toys

Dental treats and chews can help reduce plaque buildup, freshen breath and promote healthy gums. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for the best results. Click here to see the VOHC approved list for dogs and cats. 

Note** Bones are not your best option! They can break teeth, be choking hazards, and add extra fat into the diet leading to diseases like pancreatitis! Ask us at Moore Veterinary Care for amazing alternatives that are still yummy and effective! 

Dental treats, chews and toys are especially important for pets where brushing isn’t an option- like  exotics, rodents, rabbits, or birds. 

  • Hay cubes, tree branches, wood toys, and more are great options to scrub some plaque off and keep good dental hygiene for rodents and rabbits! 
  • Birds, while they don’t have teeth, still require maintenance on their beaks which act as their “teeth”. Cuttle bones, ceramic perches , pumice stone toys, wooden toys, and most importantly a pellet diet are the main ways to help keep their beaks from overgrowing and help them keep their dental health in tip-top shape! Note: Pumice stones and wooden toys are more suited for larger birds
  • For reptiles, giving hearty crunchier foods like fibrous greens or insects can help maintain good dental hygiene!  

3. Schedule Regular Checkups

Annual veterinary dental exams are crucial for spotting early signs of dental disease. Your veterinarian can perform professional cleanings and identify any issues before they become severe.

4. Incorporate Dental Diets & Water Additives

Some pet foods are specially formulated to support dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup. Water additives can also help freshen breath and improve oral hygiene without added stress.

We at Moore Veterinary Care carry many different options between diets and food or water additives! We know and prioritize dental hygiene and always have our favorite dental products in stock! 

5. Monitor for Signs of Dental Problems

Bad breath, excessive drooling, red or swollen gums, and difficulty eating are all signs of potential dental disease. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a vet visit right away.

By prioritizing your pet’s dental health, you can help them live a longer, happier life with a pain-free smile. Studies show maintaining your pet’s dental health can extend their lives by up to FIVE years! So, this February, take the time to show your pet’s teeth some extra love!!! 

Got questions about your pet’s dental health? Contact us today to schedule a checkup and discuss the best products to keep your pet’s dental health at tip top shape! Healthy teeth, happy tails!