Seasonal Pet Dental Care Checklist: Keep Teeth Healthy This Fall & Winter
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As the cooler months roll in, we tend to shift our focus to cozy routines, warm meals, and preparing for the holidays. But while you’re getting your household ready for fall and winter, don’t forget about your pet’s dental health. Just like humans, pets are at risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and painful infections if their oral care is neglected, especially during the colder months when outdoor activity slows down, and holiday treats sneak into their diet.
This fall and winter, use this comprehensive dental checklist to ensure your pet maintains a healthy, pain-free smile throughout the season.
1. Schedule a Professional Dental Exam
- Start the season with a professional check-up. A veterinarian can spot early signs of gum disease, cracked teeth, or hidden infections that may not be obvious at home.
Dental exams are especially important during fall and winter because colder weather can sometimes worsen existing oral discomfort, making your pet more irritable or less likely to eat. Regular check-ups help catch problems before they become emergencies.
2. Refresh Their Daily Brushing Routine
- Daily brushing remains the gold standard for pet dental care. The transition to fall is the perfect time to refresh your brushing routine, or to start one if you haven’t yet.
Use a pet-safe toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste made specifically for cats or dogs, never human toothpaste, which can be toxic. Even brushing just three to four times a week can make a huge difference in preventing plaque buildup.
3. Choose Chew Toys and Dental Treats Wisely
- Chew toys and dental treats can be helpful, but not all options are safe. Hard bones, antlers, and hooves can fracture teeth, while tennis balls may wear down enamel. Instead, pick Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)-approved dental chews, textured rubber toys, or specially designed dental bones. These options clean teeth while still being safe for chewing.
4. Keep an Eye on Diet and Seasonal Treats
- With the holidays approaching, it’s common for pets to sneak bites of rich, sugary, or fatty foods. Unfortunately, these treats can harm both their digestive and dental health.
Stick to their regular diet and reward them with vet-approved dental chews or crunchy kibble designed to scrape plaque off teeth. If you want to give seasonal treats, look for specially made pet-safe biscuits with added dental benefits.
5. Watch for Signs of Dental Problems
Colder months are a good reminder to pay extra attention to subtle changes in your pet’s behavior. Common signs of dental issues include:
- Bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or dropping food
- Bleeding gums or visible tartar buildup
- Reduced appetite
These symptoms shouldn’t be brushed off as normal. They’re warning signs that your pet might need professional dental treatment.
6. Don’t Skip Professional Cleanings
- Even with great at-home care, pets benefit from professional dental cleanings. These cleanings remove tartar below the gumline, where a toothbrush can’t reach. Fall and winter are excellent times to schedule cleanings, since pets tend to be less active and appointments can be planned ahead of busy holiday schedules. A professional cleaning can significantly reduce the risk of periodontal disease.
7. Create a Seasonal Dental Care Routine
Finally, treat fall and winter as your reset button for pet dental care. Create a routine you can stick to:
- Brushing several times a week
- Offering safe dental chews
- Scheduling annual cleanings
- Monitoring for warning signs
Consistency is key, and by making dental care part of your pet’s daily life, you’ll ensure they enjoy healthier teeth and gums well into spring and beyond.
Keep Smiles Bright All Season
- As you enjoy the cozy comforts of fall and winter, make sure your pet’s dental care is on your seasonal checklist. Healthy teeth and gums don’t just mean fresher breath. They prevent pain, protect your pet’s overall health, and keep them happy year-round.
If you’re unsure where to start or notice signs of dental problems, schedule a dental exam with Autumn Trails Veterinary Center. We offer the best pet dental care services to keep your pets healthy and happy. We offer our veterinary services in Charlottesville, VA. To book an appointment, contact us at 434-971-9800.
