Caring for Your Senior Dog or Cat with Missing Teeth

14 Jun Caring for Your Senior Dog or Cat with Missing Teeth

Our beloved pets go through many changes as they grow older, which often involves tooth loss. This may seem like a normal part of aging, but missing teeth can actually have a significant impact on your pet’s overall well-being. Fortunately, there are many ways you can help your senior pet adjust to tooth loss and maintain great oral health.

 

Understanding Tooth Loss in Senior Pets

Tooth loss in older dogs and cats often stems from several underlying causes:

1. Periodontal Disease: The leading cause of tooth loss in pets, periodontal (gum) disease occurs when plaque and tartar buildup leads to gum inflammation and bone loss in the jaw.
2. Mouth Trauma: Tooth loss can occur due to accidents, fighting with other animals, and chewing on antlers, hooves, sticks, and other hard objects.
3. Wear and Tear: A pet’s teeth can weaken and wear down over time, increasing the risk of breaking or losing teeth.
4. Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is less common in pets than in humans, but it can still lead to tooth loss if severe and left untreated.
5. Genetics: Some breeds are genetically predisposed to mouth problems and tooth loss. For instance, small-breed dogs are often more susceptible to periodontal disease.

 

Signs Your Dog or Cat Might Be Struggling with Tooth Loss

While it may be obvious that your pet is missing teeth, there are some other more subtle signs that indicate your pet is having trouble:

1. Challenges with Eating: Missing molars can make it difficult to chew kibble or hard.
2. Unexplained weight Loss: If your pet has difficulty eating, they may start to lose weight due to eating less food.
3. Excessive drooling: Your pet may drool excessively due to pain or discomfort in the mouth.
4. Halitosis (Bad Breath): Your pet’s persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, can indicate gum disease or an oral infection.
5. Pawing at the Mouth: Dogs and cats may paw at their mouths when in pain or discomfort.
6. Red, Swollen Gums: This is a common sign of periodontal disease in dogs and cats.
7. Loose or Missing Teeth: Significant gaps or noticeably loose teeth are a sign of serious dental issues.

 

Helping Senior Dogs or Cats Cope with Tooth Loss

Here are several ways to support your senior pet and prevent further tooth loss:

Routine Veterinary Exams and Teeth Cleanings

Routine veterinary check-ups are essential for detecting and treating oral issues as early as possible. Professional teeth cleanings from a veterinary dentist can prevent periodontal disease from progressing, which reduces your pet’s risk of tooth loss. Your veterinarian can also provide targeted treatments for any dental problems they identify.

Diet Adjustments

Dogs and cats that are missing teeth may struggle to eat their usual food. You can help make eating easier for your pet by switching them to softer, wet food, or soaking dry food in water or broth. A specialized veterinarian-recommended dental diet can also promote oral health. Consult your veterinarian for the best dietary options for your pet.

Softening Your Pet’s Food

Soaking dry food in warm water or offering softer options like canned pâté can ease chewing for your pet. Try giving your pet smaller food pieces or chopped-up meat to help them eat without straining the teeth they have left.

Home Oral Care 

At-home dental care can help your pet maintain good oral hygiene and protect their remaining teeth. Regularly brushing your dog’s or cat’s teeth with pet-safe toothpaste is crucial in limiting plaque buildup. Additionally, dental chews and toys that are appropriate for your pet can also help keep their mouth clean.

Managing Pain

Tooth loss and associated oral issues can cause serious pain for dogs and cats. Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to relieve pain or reduce inflammation to help manage your pet’s discomfort. Ensuring your pet is free from pain will greatly enhance their quality of life.

Considering Oral Surgery

In some cases, oral surgery such as tooth extraction is the best way to treat severe periodontal disease and protect the remaining teeth. Oral surgery can be a stressful decision for pet owners, but it’s important to keep in mind that it’s necessary to improve your pet’s health and comfort. If you have any concerns, your veterinarian can guide you through the potential benefits and risks of surgery.

 

Preventing Future Dental Disease & Mouth Problems

While some mouth problems are inevitable with age, you can take certain steps to prevent further tooth loss and damage:

1. Regular Oral Check-Ups: Make sure to bring your pet to their routine veterinary dental exams and teeth cleanings each year.
2. Daily Home Oral Care: It’s crucial that you brush your pet’s teeth every day and provide appropriate dental chews and toys to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
3. Balanced Diet: Give your dog or cat a balanced diet that supports their overall and dental health.
4. Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Discourage your pet from chewing on hard objects like bones, rocks, and tough toys that can cause break teeth.

 

Oral Healthcare for Senior Pets in Knoxville

Tooth loss is a common issue in senior pets that can significantly affect their health and quality of life. Identifying dental problems early, providing proper home dental care, and consulting your veterinarian are the best ways to effectively help your senior pet live a happy, healthy life despite tooth loss. Routine veterinary dental check-ups, a balanced diet, pain management, and excellent oral hygiene practices are crucial in keeping your pet comfortable.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s or cat’s oral health, reach out to Animal Dental Services in Knoxville for tailored advice and treatment options. Focusing on your pet’s dental care is crucial for their overall well-being and living a long life.

 

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/9/2024).Photo by Noah Moquin on Unsplash