February 1st marks the start of pet dental health month. And while many pet holidays feel invented (and sometimes silly), there's actually very little to laugh at when it comes to dental hygiene in cats and dogs. Most humans brush their teeth twice a day and schedule regular cleanings, but the same can't be said for pets. Unfortunately, the consequences of poor dental health in pets go far beyond unpleasant "doggy breath"; they can actually be fatal.
That's why Pawp put together a 28-day challenge to get your pet's oral care up to scratch — and get you in the habit of taking care of your pet's teeth the way you do your own. Taking a proactive role in your pet's dental health can actually add years to your pet's life.
Prevention is the best method to help keep your pet healthy and happy. According to the AVMA, about 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal (gum) disease by the age of 3 — so it's time to act!
Why is dental health in pets so important?
Dental/gum health has huge ramifications for overall health.
Unhealthy dental habits can seriously impact a pet’s quality of life. Chronic inflammation in the mouth can cause bone loss. Tooth root infections can also deteriorate bone. This can lead to painful abscesses or even a fractured jaw.
Periodontal disease can lead to liver, kidney, and heart issues. If the infection from the mouth enters the blood, it can spread throughout the body. The liver and kidney will have trouble filtering out the toxins and the heart is at risk too. These infections can cause permanent as well as fatal damage to a pet's organs.
Advanced periodontal disease is irreversible.
Read More: How Gum & Teeth Problems Can Shorten A Pet's Life