Tip of the week: How to brush your pets’ teeth

Start as soon as you can. “Taking care of a pet’s teeth will extend the animal’s life.” Go slower with cats, as they are generally “less receptive” than dogs.

Be gentle. Start by placing your fingers just inside the animal’s lips and gradually build up by running them along the teeth and gums. “Reward him with a food treat, since eating helps scrape food tartar off of teeth, and the prize keeps the experience positive.”

Have a strategy. Go for the upper back teeth first. “Angle slightly up so the bristles get under the gum line.” Work from back to front in little circles, making sure to pay attention to the canines and back molars. “No rinsing!”

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Keep it short. “Brush only a minute or two, two to three times per week.” Always provide a treat at the end.

Source: Family Circle