Dental disease is very common in dogs and cats, and it can be painful. The good news is that home care helps.
Why teeth matter
Dental disease can cause pain, tooth loss and may affect overall health, so prevention is worth the effort.
Start brushing
- Use toothpaste made for pets, never human toothpaste.
- Let your pet taste the toothpaste first.
- Begin by touching lips and gums, then move to a soft brush or finger brush.
- Aim for daily brushing, or as often as you can manage.
Chews and diets
Look for dental products accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). Avoid very hard chews, such as some bones and antlers, that can crack teeth.
Watch for warning signs
Bad breath, red or bleeding gums, drooling, dropping food or pawing at the mouth all deserve a veterinary visit.
Professional cleanings
Your veterinarian can recommend how often your pet needs an exam and a professional cleaning, which is done under anesthesia.