Everyone knows pets need regular visits to the vet to keep an eye on their weight, their bodies, and their overall well-being. During general checkups, a pet’s teeth are usually checked for any signs of problems. However, how can a pet owner know when it is time to make an appointment with an emphasis on Pet Dentistry in Fort Wayne Indiana? Here are three signs its time for a pet to have his or her teeth checked.
Bad Breath
Just like people, pets can suffer from a severe case of bad breath. While the smell is enough to be an issue by itself, it is usually a sign something else in the pet’s mouth needs attention. The smell comes from bacteria that has found its way into the mouth and has become trapped in between teeth, in the gums, or other locations. While brushing a pet’s teeth is a great habit to get into, there are still times when bacteria will grow and create bad breath. At the first sign of a smell, its time for an appointment for Pet Dentistry in Fort Wayne Indiana.
Stained Teeth
While bad breath is an issue shared by both pets and their owners, stained teeth can also be found in both groups. Usually, this is a sign the pet has tartar build up. This could be part of the reason the bacteria is becoming trapped in the mouth, causing bad breath. Teeth that look yellow or brown need a professional cleaning. Brushing, even frequently, is not enough to remove the tartar and get the teeth looking clean and fresh again.
Refusal to Chew Food
Any time a pet refuses to eat, there is a problem. While there could be a plethora of reasons a pet isn’t interested in eating, take some time to see if the food is being left alone because it is painful for him or her to eat. Check to see if the pet is attempting to eat food but gives up shortly after. Visible signs of pain while eating mean there is a serious issue in the mouth that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
Visit Dupont Veterinary Clinic to schedule an appointment to have your pet’s teeth and mouth examined.
