Feline Oral Health OverviewStaff TrainingProtocol ImplementationClient Education
Feline Oral Health
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The oral health/overall health connection
Dental care is an important part of a cat's healthcare plan. Many health issues can be avoided by making sure cats have regular dental care and visits that include a thorough exam. And because more than 14% of cats tested with oral disease were positive for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV), dental exams should also include FIV/FeLV testing.1
Cats most at risk for FIV/FeLV infection include:
- Cats that have been exposed to other cats with an unknown FIV/FeLV status
- Cats exposed to other cats that have tested positive for FIV/FeLV
- Cats with an unknown FIV/FeLV testing history
- Any cat that spends any time outdoors
1. Data on file at IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. Westbrook, Maine USA.
One consistent message
Part of an efficient work flow is a commitment by the whole staff to provide consistent communication to clients. To ensure everyone is on the same page, it's important to train staff members so they know exactly what the message is for each protocol. Role playing can help overcome discomfort and build needed confidence while creating a consistent message across the practice.
Available Materials:
Online Learning
Learn how to improve overall health through better feline dental care. Identify common feline oral diseases, implement good oral examination and treatment guidelines and build a stronger feline dentistry practice.
Start courseScript
Use this script as a starting point to create possible scenarios in which you'll be talking with clients about oral health and retrovirus-infection screening. Work together to create a consistent message for your practice.
View/Print
Article
Learn why this study suggests that cats with oral disease should be screened for retrovirus infection.
View/Print Video
Watch a role-played conversation between a technician and a client to see how retrovirus testing can be presented and how you can answer pet owners' questions.
Play video
All systems in place
In order for staff members to be successful, they need the support of your practice systems as well as reference points to help them remember the new protocol, particularly in the first weeks. You will also want to gauge your program’s success by using the Check Your Progress sheet.
Available Materials:
Protocol
Help ensure safe anesthesia and establish a baseline of medical data with these simple guidelines.
View/Print Codes
Set up smart codes for your most-used protocols in your Cornerstone practice management system.
View/Print Check Your Progress
Measuring your progress is essential to successful protocol implementation. Here you'll find ways to gauge success and overcome obstacles.
View/Print Videos
Ensure the whole staff stays up-to-date and compliant with new protocols.
Play video
Provide clients with more accurate and complete invoices and eliminate missed charges.
Play video
Make sure your invoice codes reflect protocol changes by setting up Smart Groups.
Play video
Bringing Pet Owners Onboard
Your staff is trained and office systems are go. Now it's time to start talking to your clients. Their agreement with testing or services will depend on their understanding of the reasons behind the recommendations.
The following materials will help you give clients the information they need to make informed decisions and to make the best choices for their pet. You’ll also find other client-related materials, such as a consent form.
Available Materials:
Form
After you've explained the reasons for retrovirus disease screening and answered any questions, this form will help to ensure that you have the pet owner's consent as well as provide one more point of reference.
View/Print Brochure
A brochure is not a substitute for face-to-face communication with clients, but it is a helpful support tool that provides in-depth detail for clients to read and refer to, either while they make a decision or after they've left the practice.
