26 Sep Top 10 Reasons Why People Don’t Take Care of Their Pet’s Oral Needs
Here are the top 10 reasons why people often neglect their pet’s oral health:
1. Lack of Awareness
Many pet owners are simply unaware of the importance of oral hygiene for pets. Unlike humans, pets don’t naturally show their dental problems, and many people don’t realize that dental diseases are common and can lead to serious health issues. Without awareness of the risks associated with poor oral hygiene, they may not prioritize dental care. This one is on us, the veterinary community. We must do a better job showing you what’s going on with your pet’s oral cavity.
2. Underestimating Dental Health’s Impact on Overall Health
Some pet owners do not understand the connection between dental health and overall health. They may not know that dental diseases, like periodontal disease, can lead to more severe conditions affecting the heart, liver, kidneys, and other organs. This lack of knowledge results in oral care being overlooked in favor of more visibly urgent health concerns.
3. Fear of Anesthesia
Dental procedures often require anesthesia, which can cause anxiety for pet owners. They may fear the potential risks associated with anesthesia, especially if their pet is older or has a pre-existing medical condition. This fear can lead to hesitation in scheduling necessary dental cleanings or treatments. Thankfully, we have a Board Certified Anesthesiologist and a Board Certified Veterinary Technician (Anesthesia) on staff at Your Pet Dentist of Nashville. That gives us the ability to anesthetize pets for procedures that otherwise your family vet would not attempt.
4. Perceived High Cost
Professional dental care for pets can be expensive, and some pet owners may feel that they cannot afford it. The cost of regular check-ups, cleanings, and any required treatments can seem high, especially if there are other financial obligations. This perception of cost may lead them to avoid or delay dental care. Cheap medicine is just that, cheap. To provide the best dental care for your pet, corners must not be cut. Otherwise, your pet may go home with disease pathology that goes undetected or untreated. This is another reason why having pet health insurance is a wise investment.
5. Lack of Time or Routine
Incorporating pet dental care into a daily or weekly routine can be challenging for some pet owners. They may struggle to find the time to brush their pet’s teeth regularly or to provide dental chews. The lack of a habit or routine for dental care can result in neglect of their pet’s oral hygiene.
6. Pet Resistance
Many pets resist having their teeth brushed or their mouths examined, which can make the process stressful and challenging for both the pet and the owner. Pet owners may find it difficult to manage their pet’s resistance and may give up trying to maintain a dental care routine.
7. Misconception that Dry Food or Chews Are Sufficient
Some pet owners believe that feeding their pets dry kibble or giving them dental chews is enough to maintain good oral health. While these products can help reduce plaque and tartar, they are not a substitute for regular brushing and professional cleanings. This misconception may lead to a lack of comprehensive dental care.
8. Visible Signs of Problems Are Often Missed
Dental diseases in pets often progress quietly without obvious signs. Pets may continue eating and behaving normally even when they have significant dental issues. Because symptoms like bad breath, drooling, or difficulty eating may be subtle or gradual, pet owners may not notice them until the problem has become severe.
9. Belief That It’s a Natural Aging Process
Some pet owners believe that dental problems, such as tooth loss or bad breath, are a normal part of aging in pets and cannot be prevented or treated. This misconception may lead them to think there is little point in providing regular dental care, especially for older pets.
10. Lack of Veterinary Guidance or Emphasis
In some cases, veterinarians may not emphasize the importance of regular dental care to pet owners, or they may not provide sufficient education on how to maintain their pet’s oral health at home. Without guidance from their vet, pet owners may not recognize the need for proactive dental care or may not know how to properly care for their pet’s teeth.
Don’t Neglect Your Pet—Schedule an Appointment Today!
Neglecting pet oral care is often due to a combination of factors, including lack of awareness, fear, cost concerns, pet resistance, and misconceptions about the importance of dental health. Addressing these barriers through education, support, and accessible veterinary care can help improve oral health outcomes for pets.
By understanding these reasons, pet owners can be more proactive in taking steps to ensure their pets receive the oral care they need to lead healthy and comfortable lives.
If your pet is due for a dental checkup and cleaning, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Carpe Dentum!
Barden Greenfield, DVM, Dipl. AVDC – Board Certified Veterinary Dentist (TM)
Your Pet Dentist of Nashville