Good oral hygiene is extremely important for the health of your dog or cat. The soft foods that are often fed to animals these days tend not to provide the abrasive action necessary to keep the teeth clean and the gums as healthy as they might be, whereas raw meat contains enzymes which help to keep the teeth clean. Dogs and cats kept on these natural diets will usually suffer less from teeth problems and have whiter, healthier teeth. Giving dogs raw marrowbones to chew intermittently will keep them happy and benefit their teeth too, but remember never to give cooked bones.

Plaque is the substance, mainly consisting of bacteria, that sticks onto the teeth and is the main cause of gum disease. If not removed and allowed to remain on the teeth it can result in the formation of hard tartar deposits which are the result of a poor oral hygiene regime. Tartar is unsightly and leads to receded gums and gum infections. It may need to be removed by a veterinary surgeon under anaesthetic but can be prevented by regular, preferably weekly, cleaning of the teeth using Roast Dinner Veterinary Toothpaste.

Our toothpaste is especially formulated for veterinary use, being slightly more abrasive than ordinary toothpaste and also low-foaming to cause less stress to the dog or cat. Its meaty flavour is very acceptable and helps turn the whole experience into a pleasure for both animal and owner. The Homœopathic remedy Fragaria 3C is used to soften existing tartar and aid its removal and so is an important part of a good cat or dog dental hygiene regime. See also the section on Gingivitis.

Don’t forget you can contact Dorwest on 01308 897272 for advice on treatment for your dog or cat.