Many years ago, the American Veterinary Medical Association dedicated February to promoting dental health in pets. When I am in the clinic working with animals, most dogs and cats I see over the age of four have some sort of dental problem. In dogs, I see chipped teeth, inflamed gums and lots of tartar on the teeth, especially on the back molars. Beside the problems listed above, cats also suffer from a disease called feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORL’s). These destroy teeth. The following picture shows a FORL in the lower canine (fang) that has destroyed the base of the tooth.
Since dental disease is painful and affects general health, it is important to keep your pet’s teeth clean.
https://www.avma.org/Events/pethealth/Pages/February-is-National-Pet-Dental-Health-Month.aspx
Published by kristennelsondvm
Dr. Kristen Nelson grew up on a farm in Watertown, Minn., where she developed a deep love for animals of all kinds. She received a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine. Kris then completed a small-animal internship at the prestigious Animal Medical Center in New York City.
In addition to writing and speaking, she cares for small and exotic animals in Scottsdale, Az. Dr. Nelson is widely quoted in the media. Her credits include Ladies’ Home Journal, USA TODAY, the Los Angeles Times and numerous radio and television interviews. Dr. Nelson has written two books, Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life and Coated With Fur: A Blind Cat’s Love. Kris and her husband Steve share their home with rescued cats, birds and a dog.
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