Pet parents likely know that an animal's dental health is key to their overall well-being. But there is a lot that pet owners don't know about the mouth of your furry friend. For example, do you know how many teeth dogs and cats have? That's something you may have wondered. Perhaps you've been wondering if your cat can get cavities. Before you know it, you'll be informed and ready to answer questions from others. Here are some important facts about your pet's dental health.
Pet Dental Care 101: Cat and Dog Oral Health Facts
For Dogs
1 - How Many Teeth Does a Dog Have?
Dogs have 42 teeth, and there are premolars and molars for both the upper and lower jaws. The teeth have different names, and the size and shape vary depending on the breed.
2 - Can Dogs Get Cavities?
Yes, as with humans, dogs can get cavities. However, the way it happens is different than in humans. Sugar causes bacteria to thrive in the mouth, and the bacteria will start to produce acid. This reaction leads to the deterioration of the teeth. If the acid reaches the pulp of the tooth, a hole can form, and the pulp will die.
3 - Can Dogs Eat Bones?
Dogs can eat bones, but they should not be your dog's only source of nutrition. You can feed your dog cooked bones or raw bones if they are low on calcium. The bones should be of the appropriate size so that they are digested. Avoid chicken bones, as they are extremely dangerous for dogs to ingest.
4 - How Often Should You Brush Your Dog's Teeth?
It is recommended to brush your dog's teeth once a week. If you are about to give your dog an oral chewy treat, you can brush their teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
For Cats
1 - Can Cats Get Cavities?
Similar to dogs, cats can get cavities too. “Cat cavities” or feline resorptive lesions happen when your fur baby's tooth breaks down and develops holes. The process begins inside the tooth and usually moves on to other, more visible parts of the tooth.
These resorptive lesions can be quite painful for your cat, or they may go virtually unnoticed. It all depends on the number of lesions, the severity, and how tolerant your kitty is of them.
2 - How Many Teeth Do Cats Have?
Cats have 42 teeth as well, and there are premolars and molars for both the upper and lower jaws.
3 - How Often Should You Brush Your Cat's Teeth?
The absolute best way to protect your pet's oral health is by brushing their teeth daily or at least three times per week.
Cats and dogs should not eat raw meat from the human world.... it has bad bacteria and does need to be cooked for human consumption. However, specially prepared fresh meat grinds from a pet food provider are the best way to nourish your animals. Fresh foods in the pet world are prepared carefully and pasteurized to make them very safe for dogs and cats.... at any time during their life, especially if they are later in life and struggling with organ disease. Please visit one of our stores and speak with one of our nutrition specialists. We can make recommendations that will open your eyes to a new, improved way of feeding your beloved pets.
Conclusion
Should you be looking for local pet supplies to help your pet's oral health stay in top shape, come to Wags to Wiskers! We are a community-based pet supplies store with a focus on natural, holistic pet foods, primarily for but not limited to dogs and cats. Visit our shop today!