Health

Dogs and cats

Dental disease

Dental disease, including tartar, gum disease and painful tooth problems, is very common in dogs and cats and becomes more likely with age. Most pets keep eating despite mouth pain, so problems are often missed. Daily tooth brushing and regular dental checks are the best protection.

What you might notice

• Bad breath.
• Yellow-brown tartar on the teeth.
• Red, swollen or bleeding gums.
• Chewing on one side, dropping food or preferring soft food.
• Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face.
• Loose or broken teeth.

Common causes

• Plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth.
• Age.
• Small dog breeds and some pedigree cats.
• Tooth resorption in cats.
• Broken teeth from chewing very hard objects.

What you can do at home

• Brush teeth daily, or at least three times a week, using pet toothpaste.
• Introduce brushing slowly with rewards.
• Lift the lips regularly to check teeth and gums.
• Offer softer food if chewing seems painful until your vet sees your pet.

Book a vet in the next day or two if

• Bad breath, tartar or red gums.
• Chewing on one side or dropping food.
• Loose or broken teeth.
• Weight loss or a cat grooming less.

Don't

• Never use human toothpaste or mouthwash on pets.
• Do not force brushing on a distressed pet.
• Do not ignore bad breath; it is often a sign of disease.

Prevention

• Start brushing teeth when your pet is young.
• Have a dental check at least once a year.
• Limit sugary treats and do not rely on dental chews alone.

This guide gives general information about common health problems in dogs and cats. It is not a diagnosis and it does not replace an examination by a veterinarian. Every animal is different, and signs that look mild can sometimes hide a serious problem, especially in cats, which often hide illness and pain. If you are worried about your pet, or if your pet shows any of the warning signs listed here, contact your vet or the nearest emergency veterinary clinic straight away. Never give your pet human medicines or any medicine not prescribed for that animal by a vet.