Contributed by Jila Tahani
Dental disease is very common in cats and dogs. As animals are very good at hiding pain, dental disease often goes unnoticed until it becomes very severe. By the age of three, up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal disease.
Over time, plaque builds up and forms hard tartar, which leads to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). This can often be seen as yellow, hard calculus on the teeth. If left untreated, it can progress to infections, tooth loss, and potentially bacteria entering the bloodstream, which may affect other organs.
Often, there are no obvious signs of dental disease, but bad breath can be an early indicator. In more advanced cases, you might notice difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, drooling, or red and bleeding gums.
If your pet allows it, try brushing their teeth daily with pet-safe toothpaste. It’s best to start when they are young so they become accustomed to it. There are also special dental diets, toys, and treats that can help reduce plaque build-up.
Regular dental checkups with your vet are essential. By following their advice, you can help protect your pet’s teeth and overall wellbeing for years to come. If you’re unsure about your pet’s dental health, book a dental check with us today.