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Many skunks may get some form of gum disease. Check your skunk's mouth/teeth/gums at least twice a year. The earlier you catch something wrong with your skunks mouth the better. Look for red, dark purple, or swollen gums, tartar build up or stains, and cracked or broken teeth. Try to look way back to the jaw area as well.
Most pet care sites have information on periodontal disease, here are a few:
Bacteria and infection in the mouth may spread through the bloodstream. Dirty teeth may smell and look bad, but the damage that you don't see could be much worse. The gum tissue has an extensive blood supply. When periodontal infection starts, these bacteria get into your pet's circulation and eventually lead to heart, liver, kidney and bone and joint disease, including organ failure. Besides this, a bad tooth is just plain painful to animals and humans alike!
Look for signs of not eating and check the mouth once or twice a year. I have not tried any products yet to use as a preventative. I have heard of some people trying Greenies on their skunks.
We use a thick flexible plastic spoon handle or wood (popsicle stick, or long swab handle) to check the skunks that may bite fingers.
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| Check teeth for cavities, tarter, etc. | Check gums for redness and bleeding |
© 2008-2009 Skunk Haven™ Skunk Rescue, Shelter, and Education, Inc.
Revised 02/29/12 (SRS)
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