Dental health is important for both cats and dogs, but it is often neglected until observable symptoms appear. The majority of pets over the age of three are affected by dental disease, particularly periodontal disease, which can cause pain, tooth loss, and even systemic illnesses affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. While both species suffer from dental disease, cats and dogs have distinct characteristics, symptoms, and preventative measures.
Understanding Pet Dental Disease Dental disease typically begins with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar, which can irritate the gums and lead to gingivitis (gum inflammation). Left untreated, this can progress to periodontal disease, which affects the tissues and bone that support the teeth.
Even though the disease process is the same for cats and dogs, different symptoms can appear, and some conditions are more common in one species than in the other. Cat Dental Disease Symptoms Dental issues are more difficult to spot in cats because they are less obvious when they are in pain. Common symptoms include:
Bad breath (halitosis)
Excessive drooling (sometimes tinged with blood)
Pawing at the mouth
Difficulty eating or chewing on one side
Decreased appetite or weight loss
Chattering jaw or teeth grinding
Cats are also prone to a unique condition called Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions (FORLs), where the tooth structure breaks down, causing intense pain and eventual tooth loss. It may be challenging to identify these lesions below the gum line if dental X-rays are not taken. Dog Dental Disease Symptoms As dental disease progresses, symptoms may be more pronounced in dogs. Some warnings are: Bad breath that lasts forever On teeth, visible tartar buildup Red or bleeding gums
Loose or missing teeth
Reluctance to chew toys or hard food
swelling of the face or mouth While dogs don’t experience FORLs like cats, they can develop abscesses, fractured teeth, and severe gum recession if dental disease is left untreated.
Why Early Detection Is Critical Oral bacteria from untreated dental disease can enter the bloodstream and cause bacteremia, which affects major organs. This can contribute to diseases in the heart (endocarditis), kidneys, and liver. Chronic pain from dental disease also impacts pets' quality of life and behavior.
Prevention Strategies
1. Regular Dental Exams
Annual (or biannual for older pets) dental check-ups are essential. Veterinarians are able to spot early signs of disease and provide recommendations for required professional cleanings. Dental X-rays may be necessary to spot hidden problems, especially in cats.
2. Brushing Teeth at Home
The gold standard for preventing plaque buildup is daily brushing. Use a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste—never human toothpaste, which can be toxic to animals.
Cats: Use flavored toothpaste and start slowly to get them to cooperate. Dogs: Many dogs tolerate brushing if introduced gradually and associated with positive reinforcement.
3. Dental Chews and Toys
Chewing can help reduce plaque and tartar. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), which have been tested for effectiveness.
Alternatives to rawhide, rubber chew toys, and certain dental treats can be beneficial for dogs. For cats, dental diets and treats designed to reduce tartar can supplement brushing.
4. Prescription Dental Diets
Veterinarians may recommend specific dental diets that mechanically or chemically reduce plaque. These are especially helpful for cats who might not like to be brushed. 5. Professional Dental Cleaning
Just like humans, pets sometimes need a thorough dental cleaning under anesthesia. This allows the vet to remove tartar below the gum line, polish the teeth, and extract any diseased teeth. Anesthesia is crucial to properly and safely perform a deep cleaning and dental X-rays.
Treatment of Dental Disease
The Cats: FORLs often require extraction, as the lesions are painful and cannot be reversed.
Regular home care and cleaning can be used to treat gingivitis or mild periodontal disease. In some cases, full-mouth extractions are necessary to treat stomatitis, a severe inflammation of the entire mouth. In Canines: Moderate to severe periodontal disease may require multiple extractions.
Fractured teeth can sometimes be saved with root canals (performed by veterinary dental specialists) or may need removal.
Abscesses may require drainage, antibiotics, and tooth extraction.
Pets often show significant improvements in energy and appetite following treatment, indicating how much discomfort they were secretly experiencing. Conclusion
Dental health is not just about fresh breath—it’s a key component of your pet’s overall wellness. Both cats and dogs benefit from early detection, consistent home care, and professional cleanings. Recognizing the signs of dental disease and taking proactive steps can spare your furry companion unnecessary pain and prolong their healthy, happy life.
Your pet might not be able to tell you they have a toothache, but with regular care and attention, you can help them avoid one in the first place.