August is the Australian Veterinary Association’s Pet Dental Health Month so there’s no better time to check out your furry friend’s teeth and brush up on your pet’s dental regimen.

Vets around Australia are making a conscious effort to remind pet owners of the importance of good dental care for their pawsome pals. The first step to optimal dental care is to get your pet into best-practice teeth-brushing habits from a young age. After all, prevention is better than cure.

To ensure that your cat or dog doesn’t become a statistic—namely one of the four out of five dogs and cats over the age of three with tooth decay—here are some ways in which you can clean your dog’s or cat’s teeth.

Good dental health for dogs and cats

• Be aware that dogs and cats don’t naturally have smelly breath
• Brush up on the signs of tooth decay and infection: bad breath, red and inflamed gums and stained teeth
• Check your pet’s teeth and gums regularly
• A diet of natural, raw food (fresh bones and raw meat) with help protect your pet’s teeth and gums naturally
• Brush your pet’s teeth regularly. If you start them young, they might actually enjoy it!
• Make sure your pet gets regular vet dental check-ups and, if needed, a professional clean

A healthy smile signals a happy pet so it’s just as important to take good care of your fur baby’s teeth as it is your own toothy pegs.

For more information about dental care for dogs and cats (horses and rabbits too!) check out the Australian Veterinary Association website.