If your pet has stinky breath it’s important to realise that this is not normal.
Don’t be tempted to simply turn your head away as bad breath can be a sign that your pet is suffering from dental disease, a sneaky condition that likes to creep up on your pet. As the disease progresses, plaque and tartar build up around the teeth leading to an inflammatory condition called gingivitis. Eventually the gum separates from the tooth and small pockets of bacteria accumulate.
You should not ignore this disease. It is painful and can impact the overall health of your pet as the bacteria enter the bloodstream and make their way around your pet’s body.
Signs of dental disease include:
- Bad breath
- Redness of the gums
- Drooling from the mouth
- A loss of appetite or weight loss
Sometimes the signs are subtle and you may not notice anything at all. This is why it is important that your pet’s oral health is regularly checked. We can show you how to look at your pet’s gums at home and know what is normal. That way between home and regular vet checks we can detect early signs of gum disease.
If we diagnose dental disease early enough, we can implement a treatment plan and slow the progression of this condition. Your pet will be healthier and you will be able to be kissed by your furry friend without being hit in the face with bad doggy breath!