Q: Quincy, our multi-poo (Maltese/miniature poodle) has the worst breath. His teeth are clean, which makes me suspect possibly something in his stomach is causing this stink. We’ve tried green chewies advertised for fresh breath but they don’t work. Any suggestions?
T.D., Largo, FL
A: While it’s possible that the smell might be coming for your dog’s “insides,” veterinary dentist Jan Bellows says odds are we’re talking about periodontal disease. “Sixty per cent of the tooth is below the gum line, so your veterinarian can’t actually see what’s going on,” says Bellows. “Odds are, plaque there requires removal. Also, dental X-rays – just like we get – are probably a good idea.”
If Bellows is right and the problems are hiding below the gum line, there’s no product that can replace a veterinary dental. However, there are products that help prevent problems from getting that bad in the first place, and can help deal with tartar on teeth. Many products are marketed as “dental” products, but only a pawful are certified by the Veterinary Oral Health Council; their website lists products proven to work: vohc.org/.
Q: Our 5-year-old rescued cat nurses on one particular fleece blanket. She puts her mouth on it, sucks and purrs, then kneads. Was she weaned too early? Is this a problem?
J.L. Quinton, VA
A: “My cat, Cannoli, kneads while sitting in my lap and drools,” says cat behaviour consultant Beth Adelman. “Add sucking on fabric, and it’s the behaviour you describe, which is a juvenile behaviour as an adult. It could mean the cat was weaned too early, but probably not. Many cats are comforted by sucking on a soft or wool fabric, and they may simultaneously drool and/or knead.”
Some people don’t like to have wet blankets lying around, but there’s really no harm here as long as the cat doesn’t seem to be compulsive about needing to suck, or isn’t ingesting pieces of the blanket which could cause gastrointestinal upset.
Q: I live in a small apartment and I want a Siberian husky. My cousin, who shows huskies, thinks I’m crazy. I do jog every day, and I realize these dogs need tons of exercise. Should I even attempt this?
S.H., Boston, MA
A: I don’t see the issue here. Let’s take Husky No. 1: This dog lives in a mansion but gets stuck in the huge back yard all day, without socialization or the chance to do anything except find a way to jump the fence
Now, for Husky No. 2: This dog’s savvy owner lives in a studio apartment but runs daily with his dog (which huskies need), and socializes the pet with other people and other dogs (which huskies relish).
If I’m a husky, I’m much happier in that apartment than big back yard.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/life/breath+dental+problem/5642471/story.html#ixzz1cqD5ClCd
