According to the American Veterinarian Dental Society, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show some signs of gum disease by age 2. Lack of dental care can not only cause major dental disease in pets, it can lead to more serious health problems including heart, kidney and lung disease. It’s essential to be preventative in your pet's dental care. Your pet's teeth should have the tarter scraped off of them every 3-6 months, and be professionally cleaned under general anesthesia at least once a year. Here at the Corner Animal Hospital, our dental exams are performed during your pet’s annual physical, and cleanings are suggested when necessary.