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Dental hygiene is just another part of owning a ferret. Since they are not hunting out in the wild for their food nature's way of taking care of teeth is not working. So as responsible owners it is up to us to do the job. If the ferret is fed a soft mash diet the build up of plaque and debris is more. Dry food helps in keeping the teeth clean.

Brushing or cleaning the teeth should happen at least twice a month. Human toothpaste will make ferrets sick of any is swallowed so use toothpaste prepared for the animals. If the ferret is a laid back ferret, (is there such a thing?) begin with a ferret tooth brush. If not it is suggested that a nylon wrapped around finger may be the way to introduce the animal to brushing. Eventually the animal may tolerate a ferret tooth brush.

Put a little paste on the nylon and rub the teeth gently for 5 to 10 seconds. Work up the time as the animals allows. Pay close attention to the gum line as gum disease is often a problem for ferrets. It sounds easy but fiddling around the mouth of a ferret can be dangerous. So make sure you have a secure and comfortable grip on the neck of the ferret. Constantly reassure the animal. Just keep working and make sure that the canines, molars and gums all get cleaned. For some owners this is an all day process.

Kind of like the bathing experiences a ferret may actually enjoy the process. If the ferret does this should be an easy job.

Twice a year the animal should have a cleaning by a professional. These oral exams are essential for the proper care of the ferret.

The veterinarian will do several things during the examination. They will:

*Preform an examination of the face and head for asymmetry, dicharges, or swelling

*Examine the gums, outside surfaces of the teeth, and check the bite

*Check the inside of the mouth for gum disease, check the tongue, palates, tonsils, and oral mucosa

*Anesthetize the ferret and flush the mouth with an antibacterial solution

*Clean the teeth and gums with hand held ultrasonic scalers

*Take care of any calluses that have built up

*Polish the teeth

As ferret's age it becomes increasing important to watch for gum issues and clean the teeth often. They normally move to a softer diet over time. So brushings may increase to weekly for proper aging care.

Brushing teeth and proper dental care are just one of the responsibilities assumed when someone makes the decision to own the pet. They can no do it themselves. Put it on the to do list.

Learn more about this author, Trenna Sue Hiler.
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