Dental Care Tips for Your Pocket Pet

If you own a pocket pet like a hamster, guinea pig, rabbit, mouse, rat, or gerbil, it’s your responsibility to make sure their dental health is maintained. The question is, how do you go about doing that? Learn more below from your Pickerington, OH veterinary professional.

Mouth Exams

It’s easier said than done, but try and get a quick look inside your pocket pet’s mouth every now and then. (This will be easiest when your pet is tired!) Gently peel back the lips to expose the teeth and gums. Check for cracked or fractured teeth, misalignment, swelling, bleeding, or anything else out of the ordinary. Also note that many pocket pets’ teeth can grow too long over the lips; this may require a veterinarian’s touch to correct, so let your vet know if you think this is the case.

Proper Diet

Remember that a great diet is where your pocket pet’s good dental health—not to mention overall well-being—begins. Feed your furry friend a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their particular species. Many pocket pets’ diets must also be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables like lettuce, carrots, cucumber, squash, and berries. Ask your veterinarian if your pocket pet would benefit from these foods, as well as which fruits and veggies are safe to feed to animals.

Chewing Items

Does your pet have adequate chewing toys or chew sticks? These are essential for helping to keep the teeth and gums strong, and they help file down the teeth to prevent them from becoming too long or sharp. It also allows your pet an outlet for chewing other than the wire mesh of his cage, which can damage teeth and gums. Talk to your veterinarian to get a recommendation on great chewing items for your pocket pet’s needs—many of these products are fortified with vitamins and minerals to provide an even greater benefit!

Veterinary Visits

Don’t forget that regular visits to your veterinarian’s office are essential for keeping your little friend’s dental health in tip-top shape. Your veterinarian can catch any problems early, treating them before they are allowed to develop into more serious issues. This will save you a lot of worry, money, and heartache! Does your pocket pet need veterinary attention? Do you have further questions on improving your pet’s dental health or quality of life? Make an appointment today with your Pickerington, OH animal clinic.