How to brush my ferret's teeth?

Like with most small domestic animals, the dentition of the ferret is prone to tartar. To limit the damage this deposit can cause, it is essential to adhere to some hygiene precautions, starting with the brushing of its teeth.

The importance of brushing your ferret's teeth

Much like our own dentition, your ferret's teeth are affected by the phenomenon of dental plaque, caused by its diet. Without intervention, this plaque turns into tartar, which can lead to serious issues, the first sign being generally bad breath. Further to this, difficulty in chewing food may be observed. It can be followed by inflamed gums or even loosening and loss of teeth. In the worst cases, diseases may emerge elsewhere in its body.

For your ferret's well-being, monitoring its mouth is crucial, but not only that! Indeed, while a varied diet is necessary, it is nevertheless the cause of tartar formation. A dry food diet with kibble is recommended, as it is known for naturally cleaning teeth and delaying the appearance of tartar.

How to brush its teeth?

To prevent some resistance from your ferret at the crucial moment of brushing, some easy rules can be followed.
Firstly, it is important to accustom it to the process, starting this practice from a young age. It is also beneficial to make this moment feel like play.
On the practical side, apply dental paste (similar to those designed for dogs and cats) on a small brush or a compress. Finger toothbrushes are available to facilitate the brushing process, which should be done gently. If you or your ferret struggle with this method, it is also possible to apply a drop of paste directly onto your pet's gum. If regular brushing is difficult, chew toys are available. They will help reduce the formation of tartar. By following these measures, it is possible to avoid, or at the very least delay, the need for a professional scaling. This process, performed under general anesthesia, will become necessary once the teeth appear yellow or when tartar has gained ground. Your veterinarian will be best placed to advise you when the time comes.

In short, your pet's mouth has enemies that need to be monitored because they could have serious health repercussions. Brushing your ferret's teeth is a practice to be carried out regularly to minimize its exposure to tartar. By familiarizing it from a young age, it should not dread this moment but integrate it into its routine and allow it more easily.