How to Brush Your Cat’s or Dog’s Teeth: A Vet’s Guide to Pet Dental Care
How to Brush Your Cat’s or Dog’s Teeth: A Vet’s Guide to Pet Dental Care
Keeping your pet’s teeth clean is an important part of their overall health. Regular tooth brushing helps prevent plaque build-up, gum disease and dental discomfort in both cats and dogs.
At Petals we know that getting your pet comfortable with tooth brushing can take time. Here’s our practical guide to brushing your pet’s teeth, spotting dental problems and knowing when to seek veterinary advice.
Why is tooth brushing important for cats and dogs?
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on teeth. Without regular removal, it can harden into tartar and contribute to gum inflammation and periodontal disease.
Dental disease can be painful, even when your pet continues to eat normally. Daily tooth brushing is one of the most effective ways to help prevent plaque build-up and maintain healthy teeth and gums.
How to brush your pet’s teeth
Ideally, brush your cat or dog’s teeth daily. Start gradually, particularly if your pet is not used to having their mouth handled.
Choose the right equipment. Use a soft pet toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for cats or dogs. Never use human toothpaste, as it is not intended to be swallowed by pets and may contain harmful ingredients. Products marked with VOHC are independently tried and tested by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, so we recommend these.
Introduce brushing slowly. Let your pet sniff the toothbrush and taste a small amount of pet-safe toothpaste. Gently get them used to having their lips lifted before you begin.
Brush gently. Lift the lip and use small, gentle movements along the teeth, concentrating on the gumline and the outer surfaces of the back teeth.
Keep sessions positive. Start with just a few teeth and gradually build up. Offer praise and rewards, and stop if your pet becomes distressed.
Cats may need extra time and patience to accept brushing. Never force your pet’s mouth open or continue if you suspect they are experiencing pain.
What if my cat or dog won’t let me brush their teeth?
Some pets take longer to get used to tooth brushing. If brushing is difficult, we can recommend alternatives such as suitable dental diets, dental chews or pet-specific dental products.
These can support oral health, but their effectiveness varies and they may not replace brushing. Avoid very hard chews and bones, which can cause painful tooth fractures.
If your pet resists having their mouth touched, arrange a veterinary check to rule out an underlying dental problem.
Signs of dental disease in cats and dogs
Contact us if you notice any of the following:
Persistent bad breath.
Red, swollen or bleeding gums.
Yellow or brown deposits on the teeth.
Loose, broken or discoloured teeth.
Drooling, pawing at the mouth or chewing differently.
Reduced appetite or difficulty eating.
Swelling around the face or jaw.
When does your pet need professional dental treatment?
Tooth brushing helps prevent plaque build-up, but it cannot remove established tartar or treat advanced dental disease.
We can examine your pet’s mouth and advise whether professional dental treatment is needed. Depending on the findings, this may include a dental procedure under general anaesthesia, cleaning and polishing, dental X-rays and treatment of diseased or damaged teeth.
At Petals, our experienced veterinary team can assess your pet’s dental health and discuss the most appropriate care. We have dental X-ray facilities and the equipment needed to investigate and treat a range of dental problems. If you are concerned about your pet’s teeth, or you would like advice on starting a brushing routine, contact us to arrange a consultation. We can help you understand your options and decide on the best next steps for your pet.
Help your pet enjoy a healthier smile
A few minutes of gentle tooth brushing each day can make a real difference to your pet’s oral health. Start slowly, be consistent and arrange regular veterinary checks to help identify dental problems early.
Need a some more advice on dental care? At Petals Vets right here in Surrey Quays / Canada Water, London, we can help with any first opinion dental needs. Reach out to us today!