Dental Care
Why Your Pet’s Dental Health Is Important
Did you know our furry friends can have the same dental health issues as us? Pets can suffer from toothache, decay, cavities, teeth and gum infections, abscesses and chipped or broken teeth the same as people. Just like us, poor dental care and disease can affect their general health and wellbeing too, which is why it is so important to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Worldwide studies reveal that over eighty percent of dogs and greater than seventy percent of cats over the age of three years, have dental diseases. While dental disease in pets can cause them considerable pain and discomfort, they are often good at concealing it. When you bring your furry friend in for their regular health consultation, our vets will do a dental check as a part of their head to toe examination. If you suspect your pet has a dental condition in between regular visits, book a dental consultation as early as possible.
Signs of Dental Disease in Pets
Apart from obvious signs of pain or discomfort, there are a number of other indications that your pet may have a dental condition.
Bad breath
Red or swollen gums
Reluctance to eat
Tartar Build Up
Fractured Teeth
If your furball is showing any of these symptoms, they are probably feeling some level of discomfort or pain.
How We Help With Your Pets Dental Health
We believe it is better to prevent dental disease in pets whenever possible by getting them started on a dental care routine when they are puppies and kittens. If you have a new furry family member, our staff will be happy to advise you on how to keep their teeth and gums healthy. They can share information about foods that help to cleanse and strengthen teeth, chewable treats and regular tooth brushing. Even with a healthy diet and regular cleaning, it is possible that your pet will develop a build-up of plaque on their teeth over time. We can remove the plaque with a professional scale and clean. This treatment is done under anaesthetic and removes all accumulated plaque and tartar, leaving the teeth and gums fresh and clean. Plaque that is left untreated, hardens to form tartar which can lead to infection and gum erosion.
If your four legged friend has a more serious dental condition, we may need to investigate further with our advanced dental imaging equipment. The radiograph images will help us to determine the best line of treatment for their condition. In severe cases, tooth extraction may be required. Our goal is to preserve your pet’s teeth whenever possible but if a tooth is badly damaged or diseased, it may need to be removed to prevent further problems. Most cats and dogs adjust and recover well after a tooth extraction.
Regular Dental Checks for your Pets Health and Happiness
Just as their human family members require regular dental checkups, dogs and cats need them too. Because dental health affects their overall wellbeing, it is essential to keep your pets teeth and gums clean and well maintained. Your pets dental health will be checked at all consultations with our vets and they will advise you if any damage or disease is found. We will discuss results with you and recommend treatments if needed. If you suspect your pet may have a dental problem, contact our friendly staff to make an appointment for a consultation. Looking after your pets dental health will contribute to their overall health and happiness, give them a great smile and fresh kisses.
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Some common reasons pets might visit us for an emergency
If you’re unsure
If you’re unsure whether your pet needs immediate attention, don’t hesitate to call us on 02 9140 0177.
Vomiting and Diarrhoea
Nothing prompts a quick visit to the veterinary hospital like seeing your pet suffering from extended vomiting and diarrhoea. This distressing situation can arise from various causes, including dietary indiscretion, consumption of fatty or inappropriate foods, and infections.
Toxin Ingestions
Pets are naturally curious and sometimes get into harmful substances. Common toxins include grapes, chocolate, xylitol (Chewing Gum), certain plants (like lilies for Cats), human medications, rodenticides, foreign body and even an overdose of their own medication. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic or foreign, seek veterinary advice immediately.
Lacerations and Bite Wounds
Playful activities can sometimes lead to injuries. This is especially true in settings like dog parks or when multiple cats interact. Our veterinarians frequently address wounds and abscesses, providing necessary treatment to ensure your pet heals properly.
Motor Vehicle injury
Road accidents involving pets are sadly all too common. While some pets may only suffer minor injuries, others may face severe trauma. To prevent such accidents, always keep dogs on a lead or within a fenced area, ensure older or less agile dogs are safe, and keep cats indoors.
Urinary Tract Obstructions
Male cats are particularly susceptible to urinary tract obstructions due to the narrowness of their urinary passage. Conditions like urinary crystals or bladder stones can exacerbate the problem. If your cat shows signs of straining to urinate, frequent urination, vocalising, or excessive grooming, seek immediate veterinary care.
Difficulty Breathing
Respiratory distress in pets can be alarming and is a common reason for emergency visits. Difficulty breathing can signal serious conditions such as heart failure, pneumonia, feline asthma, or anatomical issues. Our team can provide oxygen support and appropriate treatment for these conditions.
Gastrointestinal Foreign Material
Pets can consume foreign objects that can become lodged in their digestive tract, causing vomiting and lethargy and requiring surgical removal. Commonly ingested items include toys, clothing, and bones in dogs, and strings or hair ties in cats. If your pet has ingested something they shouldn't have, consult us for guidance.
Worsening of Underlying Illness
Pets with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or cancer may experience acute worsening of their health, necessitating emergency treatment or critical care.
Painful, Red Eye
Eye issues in pets can range from injuries and infections to more serious conditions like glaucoma. A red and painful eye requires prompt veterinary evaluation to prevent rapid deterioration and ensure appropriate treatment.
Lameness and Difficulty Walking
Lameness in pets can stem from various issues, including muscle sprains, ligament tears, fractures, or even cancer. Our emergency veterinarians can assess your pet's condition, provide pain relief, and recommend diagnostic tests like radiographs to determine the cause.
At Rosebery Veterinary Hospital, we hope your pet never faces such emergencies. However, if they do - we are open 7 days a week and ready to provide the care your pet needs.