Cat & Dog - Oral Hygiene Preparations

Why has my veterinary surgeon prescribed this medicine?

Oral hygiene preparations include dentifrice, toothpaste and dental paste or solution. Most contain an inorganic abrasive and chlorhexidine. These products are used to prevent dental plaque and gum disease.

Your pet may need a teeth clean and course of antibiotics before starting regular toothbrushing. Toothpaste for dogs and cats should be used; human toothpaste is indigestible and contains foaming agents. Toothpastes for dogs and cats are flavoured so they are palatable for your pet. Your veterinary surgeon will show you the correct way to brush your pet's teeth.

Your veterinary surgeon may also suggest a change in your pet's diet. A fibrous or dry diet can help prevent build-up of plaque. Products such as chews are also beneficial because chewing activity helps salivary flow. Bones are not usually recommended.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinary surgeon. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Use the product regularly.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and DO NOT give more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any treatments.
• Wash your hands after handling the medication.
• In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical advice immediately and show the package leaflet or label to the physician.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible and then resume the dosing programme advised by your veterinary surgeon. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Potential side effects

• Although a medicine has possible side effects, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring.
• There are very few side effects when oral hygiene preparations are given at the usual dose. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinary surgeon.
• Certain ingredients in some oral hygiene preparations can cause the blood sugar to drop to dangerously low levels if overdosed. Signs include weakness, loss of consciousness, seizures or convulsions. If this occurs contact your vet immediately and apply a sweet paste (jam or honey) to the gums to try to increase the levels of sugar in the blood. Please note that this is a rare side effect.

Possible drug interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinary surgeon what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Contact your veterinary surgeon if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.