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Brushing your dog or cat's teeth is an
important way to keep them healthy and it can be fun for both of you if
introduced gradually. The easiest time to learn is when your pet is
young, but even older pets can learn to accept and enjoy this activity.
here are some suggestion for how to get started:
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Start by offering your pet toothpaste as a treat. Find a flavor that
your pet likes and let them eat a little bit off your finger every day.
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Once your pet is enjoying the toothpaste on a regular basis, start
trying to gently rub your toothpaste-covered finger on the gums,
focusing on the outside of the upper teeth and working towards reaching
the back of the mouth. Remember to use plenty of petting and verbal
praise as rewards.
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Now you are ready to graduate to actual brushing. Continue to focus on
the outside of the upper teeth, especially in the back of the mouth
where most problems occur. Try letting your pet lick a small amount of
toothpaste off the roof of their mouth while you are brushing.
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If you are having any problems, make an appointment for you and your pet
and bring your supplies so we can help. Some animals resist brushing
because of pain. We can diagnose and treat sources of pain with a
complete exam, cleaning, and x-rays under anesthesia.
General Recommendations:
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Consistency is key! Once you have gotten
your pet used to brushing, brush daily whenever possible. Plaque
begins to form on your pet's teeth only 6-8 hours after brushing.
Within 3-5 days it begins to change to calculus. Once calculus
forms, brushing alone will not remove it from teeth!
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Use pet toothpaste, not human
toothpaste! Human products contain too much fluoride for pets. Try
CET poultry or beef flavor for dogs and ferrets. Cats often enjoy
poultry or seafood.
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Try the CET cat toothbrush for small
dogs and ferrets and the ergonomic brush for big dogs. Soft-bristled
human toothbrushes are also fine to use. Remember to keep the brush
out of your dogs reach when you aren't using it so they don't eat
it. Some dogs can learn to accept the use of an electric toothbrush
as well. Be sure to use a separate head for your own mouth!
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If daily brushing isn't feasible for you
and your pet, or if your pet has a food allergy, consider using
Oravet, a sealant that you can apply once a week after your pet's
teeth are cleaned.
CET paste and toothbrushes, as well as
Oravet sealant and other home dental care products are available for
purchase in our lobby. For more information on your pet's dental health,
feel free to ask any staff member!
Back to What to
Expect When Your Pet Needs a Dental Cleaning
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