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\nWhether your dog is leaning in for a big slobbery kiss<\/a> or your cat is insisting on drinking out of your water cup, it\u2019s not uncommon to think, \u201cOh, it\u2019s fine! Pets\u2019 mouths are cleaner than our own.\u201d<\/p>\n Is this somewhat prevalent belief true, though?<\/p>\n The short answer is \u201cMaybe.\u201d If you clean Fido\u2019s mouth more than your own, then yes, they might have a cleaner mouth than you. However, if you\u2019re not brushing your pet\u2019s teeth multiple times a day, then it\u2019s safe to say your pet does not have a cleaner mouth than you (assuming you do brush your own teeth regularly!). Unbrushed teeth are prone to bacteria buildup, and there could even be parasites hiding in your pet\u2019s mouth.<\/p>\n We\u2019re told that flossing and brushing our teeth twice a day will reduce the bacteria in our mouths, leading to healthier gums and teeth as well as fresher smelling breath. The same holds true for pets. Veterinarians agree that regularly brushing your pet\u2019s teeth can reduce the overall number of bacteria in their mouths, helping to prevent periodontal disease and bad breath. Also, like with humans, not brushing your pet\u2019s teeth could lead to heart, liver or kidney issues<\/a>.<\/p>\n You can reduce bacteria by brushing your pet\u2019s teeth at least once a day. Dog and cat toothbrushes as well as toothpaste can be found at your local pet store. Never reach for the human toothpaste when brushing your pet\u2019s teeth. What may be safe for us is harmful to our pets.<\/p>\n Researchers have found that both humans and dogs have roughly 600 different types of bacteria in their mouths. Cats, on the other hand, have about 200 different types of bacteria in their mouths \u2014 and no, that does not mean cats have the cleanest of all mouths. Bacteria are still bacteria.<\/p>\n The types of bacteria in your pet\u2019s mouth are dependent on the animal\u2019s genetics, diet, lifestyle and hygiene habits. It\u2019s important to remember that not all bacteria are bad \u2014 some are actually helpful. But too much bacteria, or bacteria that gets where it shouldn\u2019t be, like in the bloodstream through scratches, licks or bites, isn\u2019t good for anyone.<\/p>\n If you have any sort of open wound \u2014 a scratch, a small puncture from kitty teeth or anything like it \u2014 your first reaction should be to care for the wound before your pet can lick the spot in question. While hugs and kisses from your pet can bring comfort, their saliva can pass along diseases or cause an infection when they lick the punctured skin.<\/p>\n Capnocytophaga canimorsus<\/em> is a common bacteria found in the mouths of both cats and dogs and serves as a good example of why you should heed this advice. If this bacteria strand is transmitted into an individual\u2019s open wound AND they have a weakened immune system, the injury could become infected leading to sepsis or death if proper medical care is not sought. This is a rare occurrence \u2013 especially for people who have healthy immune systems \u2013 but nonetheless something to be aware of moving forward.<\/p>\n In the case of pets who live or play outside, you have the added possibility they could transfer parasites they picked up from putting dirt, feces or small animals in their mouth. You don\u2019t want to introduce bacteria or parasites to that wound, so keep it clean and covered.<\/p>\n Just remember: If you have a wound and a pet licks it, immediately clean it out as best as you can \u2014 no matter your age or health. Then keep an eye on those wounds for any abnormalities so you can call your doctor and receive the care you might need.<\/p>\n Lastly, we should mention when a pet licks a wound that is already healing, their rough-textured tongue can damage your skin and reopen the sore. Take the right precautions and keep that healing wound away from your pet\u2019s tongue.<\/p>\n No, not necessarily! This article is not meant to make you nervous if Fido gives you a big kiss across the cheek. However, it does serve as a great reminder to brush your pet\u2019s teeth and have caution in situations where their saliva can enter your bloodstream.<\/p>\n In addition to keeping your pet\u2019s tongue away from open wounds, scientists and veterinarians say you shouldn\u2019t encourage your pet to lick your mouth, nose and eyes. Those three spots on your face could be entry points for pathogens like E. coli<\/em> into your bloodstream. So, it\u2019s better to play it safe.<\/p>\n <\/p>\nLower Bacteria Count, Higher Health Outcomes<\/h3>\n
Infectious Saliva and Open Wounds<\/h3>\n
Are Pet Kisses Dangerous, Then?<\/h3>\n