The number one disease of our dogs, cats and ferrets is periodontal disease. That is right, periodontal disease-infection of the gums and the structures surrounding the teeth. Eighty five % of all dogs and cats by three years of age have periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is progressive starting with infected gums and plaque. Eventually heavy tartar will form destroying the structure around the teeth. During this process germs are spread from the mouth causing damage specifically to the kidneys, heart and liver. This  makes it clear that your pet needs regular dental homecare in addition to regular professional care.

                                               
 There are may products available on the market. Some of these products are excellent and some are... well you know. Basically homecare can be broken down into the method of treatment.

•  Brushing with paste designed for animals is the best. Do mot use human paste because they contain cleansing agents that are irritating if sallowed. These can be applied with a small child's tooth bush or some of the special designed brushes such as the finger brush. Cats and ferret are best done with a cat brush. The combination of the brushing removes plaque with the paste killing germs that form plaque

• Oral rinse such as CET Oral Rinse or Novadent. are popular because they are flushed across the tooth surface. These products contain ingredients to kill the bacteria in the mouth. They do not offer any abrasive action for removing the plaque and developing tartars.

• )Chews come in a variety, styles and flavors. The only one that has been shown to decrease periodontal disease is the CET chews or CET Hextra Chews, These chews are rawhide stripes that are treated with dual action coenzymes designed to help clear and remove  plaque. The Hextra chews contain chlorhexidine that kills plaque forming bacteria providing a longer action. It is the combination of the abrasive agent and CET patent dual coenzyme system that made these products effective. Other products such as milk bones,greenies CET dental award have been promoted. While it is true they have some abrasive action,they do not contain the plaque fighting agents. In addition if you looked at the number of calories in these products it would be frightening.

However the best method is the one you will use reularly.

Visit us at our store, Cattyvet Pet Supply , for your pet's health care needs.