Nutrition & Periodontal Disease: How Dental Diets Helps Oral Health

Have you ever wondered if your pet really chews the food? Well, sometimes we can hear it, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are properly chewing; cats and dogs usually just swallow the food and that’s it.

Proper dental care is important as they do not get the same mechanical abrasion from the food unlike with some wild animals. Either you brush your doggy’s and kitties’ teeth daily or do a dental scale and polish with a veterinary surgeon. Remember, the primary goal of dental care at home is to reduce the amount of bacterial plaque on the teeth which in turn will decrease the level of gingival inflammation and periodontal disease.

The way to control plaque at home could be both active and passive. Both types can be effective only if performed correctly and consistently. Active dental home care is currently recommended as the most effective means of plaque control that involves the participation of the pet’s owner, such as brushing or rinsing. Passive methods are typically based on chewing behaviors via treats or using specially formulated pet diets.

Formulated diets are an excellent option for pets with a build-up of a considerable amount of tartar for some time which some breeds are more susceptible to. Yes, we know that most pet owners have a real struggle in brushing, rinsing, or cleaning their pet’s teeth reason why a visit at a veterinary clinic for a proper dental scaling and polishing is recommended.

How does a dental diet work?

Dental diet and treats have a texture that maximizes contact with the teeth. Specially formulated food with the right shape, size, and physical structure can provide plaque, stain, and calculus control.

What do I need to know before choosing the right food?

A way to check if food or treat prevents or decreases plaque or calculus accumulation is its approval by the VOHC. The VOHC is a non-regulatory agency that includes representatives from professional dental associations. Ask your veterinarian for food recommendations to help you choose the right diet with consideration of the size of your pet and the outcome of mouth evaluation.

What are the recommended brands?

Hills T/D

The kibble of Hill’s t/d contains a special matrix of fibers that act like a toothbrush to scrub the tooth in removing bacteria. The large kibble size cleans the teeth to the gum line to promote healthy gums and teeth. To find out more, visit www.hillspet.ae

Benefits

•           Cleans the tooth surface
•           Fights bacteria-laden plaque
•           Promotes overall health
•           Recommended for lifelong feeding of adult dogs

Royal Canin Dental Care

Dental Care is a complete and balanced dog and cat food that provides precise nutrition for adult pets. This diet helps control plaque and tartar with kibbles designed to promote chewing. To know more, please visit their website ae.royalcanin.store

Here at The City Vet Clinic, we have nutrition ambassadors and dental experts that could help you out by providing the right food for your pets especially with their oral and dental care.