{"id":962,"date":"2021-02-10T01:18:30","date_gmt":"2021-02-10T01:18:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bowmanvet.com\/?p=962"},"modified":"2021-08-18T11:36:56","modified_gmt":"2021-08-18T18:36:56","slug":"pet-dental-chews-are-they-worth-the-hype","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bowmanvet.com\/blog\/pet-dental-chews-are-they-worth-the-hype\/","title":{"rendered":"Pet Dental Chews: Are They Worth the Hype?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Pet dental chews are touted as being essential to your pet\u2019s oral health, but do they really work? What are the best brands? Are there better ways to care for your pet\u2019s teeth and gums? Do you really need to worry about your pet\u2019s dental health?<\/span>

Oral hygiene is critical to your pet\u2019s overall health and longevity, and the right dental chew has its place in their dental care plan. The team at <\/span>Bowman Veterinary Hospital <\/span><\/a>have gathered the facts, and we\u2019re here to walk you through this sometimes confusing, but always important topic!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Pets Need Dental Care, Too<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

By the time they reach the age of 3, most dogs and cats have some form of dental disease. Pets can suffer from many of the same oral ailments as people, such as bad breath, tartar buildup, pain, infection, and tooth loss. If left unattended, dental disease<\/a> can affect the major organs and lead to decreased lifespan.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brushing your pet\u2019s teeth at least three times per week along with regular <\/span>professional exams<\/span><\/a> and cleanings at your veterinarian\u2019s office is the key to lifelong dental health. The act of chewing also aids in clearing tartar from your pet\u2019s teeth, and that\u2019s where pet dental chews come in.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pet Dental Chews<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It probably comes as no surprise that pet dental chews are not created equal. According to the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), chews, treats, or food must remove plaque or tartar by at least 10% in order to receive their seal of approval. <\/span>Check their website<\/span><\/a> for a list of products that make the cut.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding the Right Chews  <\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Before selecting a dental chew or treat, make sure you\u2019re taking the right precautions when it comes to your particular pet.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n