Did you know that both dogs and cats can develop problems with their teeth as they get older? According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, an estimated 80% of dogs and cats 4 years of age and older show signs of oral disease.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is the most common dental problem in dogs, and the major reason for tooth loss in older dogs. It is caused by the accumulation of plaque at the gum line and is due in part to a lack of proper oral hygiene. Signs of gum disease include reddened or swollen gums, bleeding of the gums, bad breath, and possibly lack of appetite or signs of pain while eating.
Click
here for expert pet health care information in The
Merck/Merial Manual for Pet Health:
page 87, "Gum Disease"
While
gum disease also affects them, cats are susceptible to developing lesions
– also called feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions – that
affect various parts of the teeth, particularly the crown and the roots.
This condition causes loss of enamel on the surface of the tooth that
can progress to exposure of the pulp of the tooth and extensive structural
damage. Signs of dental lesions include bright red gums, sensitivity of
the tooth, loss of appetite, and drooling.
Click
here for expert pet health care information in The
Merck/Merial Manual for Pet Health:
page 392, "Cervical Line Lesions"
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