Aftercare for Your Pet Following Dental Procedures

Dental health is crucial for pets, yet it’s often overlooked since many dogs and cats dislike having their mouths inspected and can be very good at hiding signs of any issues. Just like in humans, dental problems can lead to pain, feeding problems, and infections.

If your pet has had a tooth removed, a dental abscess treated, or any other dental procedure, our experienced team will provide comprehensive aftercare guidelines that are specific to them and the treatment they have received.

Some useful general aftercare tips:

Recovering from Anaesthesia

Your pet will need general anaesthesia when having a dental procedure, the effects of which (such as feeling groggy or sleepy) can last up to 24 hours. Monitor your pet for any unusual behaviour or signs of discomfort, and create a quiet space where they can rest undisturbed.

Managing Pain Relief

If prescribed, ensure your pet receives their pain medication and antibiotics as directed, even if they seem to be feeling better. Watch for signs that their pain isn’t well-managed, such as aggression, vocalizing, panting, or agitation. If you notice these behaviours, contact the practice for advice.

Changes to Feeding

Our team will provide you with any specific feeding instructions if needed. After anaesthesia, introduce food gradually and a soft food diet will generally be recommended. Specially formulated wet food is available, or you can add water to their normal dry food to soften it.

Monitoring Healing

Check the site of the dental procedure as advised by your vet, usually once or twice daily. Look for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, discharge, or pain. Monitoring oral wounds can be challenging, so if you have any concerns about your pet’s healing, don’t hesitate to call the practice.