How to Brush Your Pet's Teeth
Oral hygiene is an important part of your pet's overall health but oftentimes is overlooked. Over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats will have some form of active dental disease by the age of 3. What makes things harder is some animals, especially cats, rarely show signs of dental pain or discomfort, so many pet owners do not even know there is an issue until more serious health issues arise. That is why Ren’s has created this guide to aid you in brushing your pet’s teeth.
Step 1 - Getting Your Pet Comfortable with the Brush
If your pet has never had their teeth brushed before, chances are they are not going to like having a brush stuck in their mouth. That is why it is important to first get them comfortable with the brush. First, introduce the brush when they are calm and relaxed. If you introduce it during playtime, they may see it as a toy. Allow them to sniff the brush and even place it in their mouth. You can reward this good behaviour with treats or positive reinforcement.
Step 2 - Touching Your Pet's Teeth and Gums
It is important that your pet get used to the sensation of having their teeth and gums touched by the brush, so slowly move it around their mouth. If they are opposed to this, do not force or rush them; simply take the brush away and introduce it again in a few minutes. If they continue to avoid the brush, leave it, and touch your pet's teeth and gums with your fingers. Once they are used to your fingers you can reintroduce the brush.
Step 3 - Introduce the Brushing Motion
Once your pet is comfortable with the brush being in their mouth and their teeth and gums being touched, you can start making a swirling motion with the brush. Make sure you brush in a swirling motion from the gum line down the tooth. This ensures you are getting rid of any plaque that may be on your pet’s teeth. When starting this step, start slow at first and for short periods of time eventually building to a minute. This may take a couple of attempts.
Step 4 - Add Toothpaste
Now that you can successfully brush your pet's teeth and gums, it’s time to introduce toothpaste. Before you put toothpaste on the brush and start cleaning, let your pet sniff it and even lick a little off. This allows them to get used to the texture and taste.
Step 5 - Start Brushing
After you have introduced your pet to the toothpaste it's time to start brushing and make those pearly whites shine! Don’t forget to take a picture of your smiling pet and tag us using the hashtag #SmileForRens