One of the most health problems in older dogs and cats is dental disease. An estimated two-thirds of dogs and cats over three years old will already be showing signs of significant dental disease.

Most owners wouldn’t dream of inspecting their pets’ mouths on a regular basis and so often it is only when the pet is taken to the vet for a problem is the issue discovered.

Initially starting as gingivitis (reddening and inflammation of the gum line), dental disease can rapidly progress to periodontitis (inflammation and damage to the attachment of the tooth to the jawbone) with abscessation and loss of teeth.

Quite commonly small breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers or Cavalier King Charles spaniels are presented for rotten teeth before their fifth birthday.

“Why does dental disease occur?” I hear you ask. The answer is plain and simple. Although dogs and cats don’t tend to eat lots of sugary foods like their human counterparts, they still have oral bacteria which in turn eat away at their teeth. Try not cleaning your teeth for a few years and you’ll soon understand why dental disease is such a big problem in our pet animals.

Whilst there are all manner of chews and treats with dental claims, the truth of the matter is that they actually have little effect at the gum line where the problem is worst. As a rough rule of thumb, dry foods (especially “dental” formulas) are better than wet foods which cling to the teeth after eating. However, there is simply no substitute for tooth brushing on a regular basis.

Many dogs will tolerate tooth brushing very well and diligent owners will reap the rewards long term. Unsurprisingly very few cats will tolerate having their teeth brushed.

Unfortunately there are no plans to introduce dentures for pets anytime soon and so prevention is much better than cure. If you are worried about your pet’s dental hygiene or recoil every time your pet breathes on you, speak to your veterinarian about a dental assessment.