Canine Periodontal DiseaseWhat is canine periodontal disease?Periodontal disease is inflammation of the structures that support the teeth. This disease is the primary loss of teeth in dogs. It is caused by a buildup of dental plaque on the surfaces of the teeth and around the gums. Bacteria can build up in dental plaque and irritate gum tissue, causing the bone surrounding the teeth to become infected. Some effects of the disease include: bad breath, bleeding gums, oral pain, food falling out of the mouth while eating, and loss of appetite. In more severe cases, teeth may become loose and fall out.Hills Prescription Diet T/D Canine Dental HealthIndicationsT/D is a complete and balanced food indicated for use in pets with periodontal disease, gingivitis, tartar, plaque, stains and bad breath. T/D Canine Dental Health is a larger kibble that resists crumbling. This allows for greater mechanical cleaning action as the kibble scrubs the entire surface of the tooth to reduce plaque and bacteria. Odor and irritation can be eliminated and reduced by removing plaque. Reduced amounts of calcium and protein act as plaque preventatives and limit the mineralization of plaque into tartar. Teeth are cleaned and maintained without the use of chemicals or abrasives. To achieve the best effect, T/D Canine should be fed daily after a dental evaluation. Contraindications This diet is not recommended for the following: • Growing puppies • Pregnant or nursing dogs • Patients who have not obtained an appropriate dental evaluation with severe periodontal disease Available forms of disease T/D is only available in dry form. There is a "small bites" version for small dogs and a regular size of kibble for medium to large dogs... half the paper... and piles. This diet also contains urine acidifiers to increase urinary pH which also contributes to the prevention and removal of struvite uroliths. S/D is not recommended as a long-term diet due to the increased acidifying effect. After a feeding period of approximately 2-3 months, the diet must be replaced with C/D Multicare Feline to prevent recurrences. Contraindications This diet is not recommended for the following: • Growing kittens • Pregnant or nursing cats • Patients who do not have struvite urolithiasis • Patients with kidney disease • Patients with metabolic acidosis Available forms This diet is available in dry or canned. Available Sizes Canned food is available in 24 x 5.5 oz. Dry food comes in 4lb bags. Feeding Guidelines A 5kg cat requires: Type of food Amount required Canned 1-1 ½ cans per day Dry 3/8 - 5/8 cup per day