7 Cheap Ways to Protect Pets’ Chompers

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7 Cheap Ways to Protect Pets’ Chompers

 by Taylor Malowney

         Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr

        

Buddy and his chew toy are best pals. Encourage healthy chewing to fight plaque and tartar!

Dental hygiene is often neglected in cats and dogs – have you ever tried to brush a cat’s teeth? Keep your pets healthy with these cheap ways to protect their teeth.

1. Feed your pet a meat-based food.

While it might sound weird, pets were made to eat meat. Feeding your little carnivore a pet food containing a healthy portion of meat – such as chicken, beef, lamb or fish – keeps healthy bacteria in check. Watch out for grain-based pet foods, which can also cause food intolerances and allergies.

2. Encourage healthy chewing.

Dental chews are a type of pet treat that is yummy and teeth-friendly. Usually made from a variety of grains and vegetable proteins, dental chews act like toothbrushes, removing plaque and tartar as your pet chews. These irresistible treats also act as breath mints, a win-win for pets and their parents. Make sure your product is certified by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)!

Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr

 

Herbs like cilantro can naturally freshen your pet’s breath! 

We said before to feed your pet a meat-based diet, and that’s still true! The bulk of your pet’s food should be meat-based. Veggies like carrots, cucumber, and celery are naturally teeth-cleaning, as are fruits like watermelon and apples. These treats are most effective two to three times weekly; any more can cause stomach issues.

4. Make all-natural breath mints.

Herbs like cilantro and parsley can quickly freshen pets’ stinky breath! Try chopping and adding to your pet’s food for a sneaky breath refresher. Drizzling coconut oil over food can also reduce harmful bacteria in your pet’s mouth, decreasing their chances of dental inflammation or infection.

5. Softer bones are easier on teeth.

If your pooch loves a good bone to gnaw on, try a knucklebone. They’re softer and less likely to damage your pet’s teeth or gums. Avoid hard or brittle bones like ribs, hooves or shank.

Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr

 

Look at those pearly whites! Schedule your pet’s dental exam today. 

Thinking of protecting your pet with health care insurance?  You can explore the cost at explorecost.com.  If you could not afford treatment what would happen to your furry friend?