Oral Microbiome

Dogs and cats, our loyal companions, possess a hidden world within their mouths - the oral microbiome. This intricate ecosystem harbors a diverse array of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa, playing a crucial role in maintaining oral health and overall well-being in our furry friends. Let's dive into the fascinating realm of the canine oral microbiome and uncover its significance.

Understanding the Canine Oral Microbiome

Dogs and cats have a complex oral microbiome that consists of various microorganisms coexisting within their mouths. These microorganisms form a delicate balance that is essential for oral health. The composition of the canine oral microbiome includes a vast array of bacteria species that work together to maintain a healthy ecosystem.

The Guardians of Oral Health

Within the oral microbiome of dogs and cats, certain bacteria act as guardians, defending against harmful pathogens and maintaining oral hygiene. These beneficial bacteria play a vital role in preventing plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of dental issues such as periodontal disease. A harmonious balance within the oral microbiome is key to ensuring your canine companion's oral health remains in top condition.

The Role of Diet in Oral Health

To promote a healthy oral microbiome in dogs & cats, providing proper dental care is essential. Regular brushing their teeth with coconut oil, feeding raw meaty bones and other animal parts such as furry rabbit ears or feet, and adding Canident to their meal can help support the microbial community in their mouths. Additionally, feeding a raw balanced diet that supports oral health can contribute to maintaining a diverse and beneficial oral microbiome in your furry friend. These methods help to decrease plaque, calculus and bad breath. Checking for any changes in your dog and cats oral health is important, as it may provide an early insight on a more accurate diagnosis and treatment for any periodontal or other oral diseases. Probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidophilus are know to help with reducing pathogenic bacteria without causing systemic adverse effects.

Just like in humans, diet plays a significant role in shaping the oral microbiome of dogs. Providing nutritious food that supports dental health can positively impact the composition of microorganisms in their mouths. Avoiding sugary treats and opting for dental-friendly options can help foster a healthy oral environment for your canine companion.

Dysbiosis occurs when there is an imbalance of oral microbiome. This causes dental issues such as gingivitis, periodontal disease and bad breath. Oral health is crucial as it effects your dog and cat's overall health. Pathogens from the mouth can travel in the bloodstream and effect organs. This can lead to certain illnesses such as kidney disease and respiratory infections.

Conclusion

The oral microbiome in dogs & cats is a hidden world brimming with life and significance. By nurturing this diverse microbial community, we can ensure our canine companions enjoy optimal oral health and overall well-being. Through proper dental care, a balanced diet, and a holistic approach to wellness, we can unlock the wonders of the canine & feline oral microbiome and enrich the lives of our beloved pets.

Ensuring a diet rich in raw meaty bones, muscle meat, secreting organs, seafood, and fiber is beneficial for maintaining a healthy oral microbiome. Raw bones aid in natural teeth cleaning, jaw strengthening, and cognitive engagement. Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids from fish can help decrease oral inflammation, especially when opting for smaller fatty fish such as herring, sardines, and mackerel to lower the risk of mercury exposure.

References

• The Canine Oral Microbiome - PMC 

• The canine oral microbiome: variation in bacterial populations across different niches | BMC Microbiology

• Microbiota populations in supragingival plaque, subgingival plaque, and saliva habitats of adult dogs

• Metagenomic analysis of the canine oral cavity as revealed by high-throughput pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA gene

• Lactobacillus acidophilus novel strain, MJCD175, as a potential probiotic for oral health in dogs    

• Influence of Gallic Acid-Containing Mouth Spray on Dental Health and Oral Microbiota of Healthy Dogs: A Pilot Study 

• Comparison of the Effects of an Herbal Mouthwash with Chlorhexidine on Surface Bacteria Counts of Dental Plaque in Dogs – Biosciences Biotechnology Research Asia 

• Consequences of untreated periodontal disease in dogs and cats