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Dental care advice for dogs and cats

All dogs and cats can develop varying degrees of gum and tooth disease by the age of three years . This is because dogs cannot brush their teeth daily to remove all food debris which leads to the build-up of plaque and eventually gum disease and tooth decay. Introducing tooth brushing to your puppy or kitten at a young age in a fun and positive way will give them the best chance of retaining their teeth well into old age, ensuring that they can continue to eat comfortably, enjoy life to the full free from pain and bad breath!

Brushing is best! How to do this...

Step 1

  • Start by using healthy treats to reward your dog or cat when touching gently the muzzle, lips and gums. Take things slowly and use a happy, joyful voice, say ‘well done’ or ‘yes’ after touching and giving the reward. Dogs that eat anything will enjoy healthy treats of small pieces of carrot or cucumber. Fussy dogs or cats, may require something tastier. Use whatever works.
  • Once they are happy to be touched inside the mouth, you can introduce a cloth and rub the teeth and gums. Dogs and cats enjoy attention so make sure this is always done with enthusiasm in a fun way and they will enjoy the activity.
  • If your pet moves away, stop the activity, slow things down and try again going at the dog or cat’s own pace.

Step 1

  • Start by using healthy treats to reward your dog or cat when touching gently the muzzle, lips and gums. Take things slowly and use a happy, joyful voice, say ‘well done’ or ‘yes’ after touching and giving the reward. Dogs that eat anything will enjoy healthy treats of small pieces of carrot or cucumber. Fussy dogs or cats, may require something tastier. Use whatever works.
  • Once they are happy to be touched inside the mouth, you can introduce a cloth and rub the teeth and gums. Dogs and cats enjoy attention so make sure this is always done with enthusiasm in a fun way and they will enjoy the activity.
  • If your pet moves away, stop the activity, slow things down and try again going at the dog or cat’s own pace.

Step 2

  • Using a special pet toothpaste, squirt some on the end of your finger and allow the pet to lick it off. Again, use a positive voice to say ‘well done’ or ‘yes’ to mark the good behaviour. Dogs like predictability so practicing this daily after their evening meal would be a good time.
  • Once the dog or cat is happy licking the toothpaste off your finger, you can start rubbing it into the gums and teeth. Repeat the words ‘ well done ‘ or ‘yes’, giving treats throughout the whole experience. The dog or cat will soon associate toothpaste and fingers in their mouths as a good thing!

Step 3

  • Show the dog or cat the toothbrush. You can start by using a finger toothbrush. Squirt the toothpaste on the toothbrush and allow the pet to lick it off saying ‘well done’ or ‘yes‘ to encourage and mark the behaviour. Give
    additional treats as rewards.
  • Gradually and moving slowly, start to put the toothbrush in the mouth. Then you can move on to gentle brushing, ensuring you work around the whole mouth in a methodical way. Often, back teeth are harder to brush. There is no need to brush the inside of each tooth because the insides of the teeth are generally kept clean from the brushing action of the tongue. Keep sessions short and take things slowly at first going at the dog or cat’s pace.
  • Gradually, you can give fewer treats and rewards only after longer sessions of tooth brushing.

Step 3

  • Show the dog or cat the toothbrush. You can start by using a finger toothbrush. Squirt the toothpaste on the toothbrush and allow the pet to lick it off saying ‘well done’ or ‘yes‘ to encourage and mark the behaviour. Give
    additional treats as rewards.
  • Gradually and moving slowly, start to put the toothbrush in the mouth. Then you can move on to gentle brushing, ensuring you work around the whole mouth in a methodical way. Often, back teeth are harder to brush. There is no need to brush the inside of each tooth because the insides of the teeth are generally kept clean from the brushing action of the tongue. Keep sessions short and take things slowly at first going at the dog or cat’s pace.
  • Gradually, you can give fewer treats and rewards only after longer sessions of tooth brushing.

Dental toys

Dogs and cats will naturally brush their own teeth through the act of chewing. By providing appropriate toys and chews on a daily basis, this will also help with the control of tartar in their mouths. Choose specific dental toys that are strong but flexible and always supervise your pet when they have dental toys and chews.

Further help on how to brush your dog’s teeth

  • Always use special dog or cat toothpaste, never human toothpaste!
  • Always read the product data sheets before using any dental care products for pets and follow the recommended dosing
  • Always consult your vet when using products and supplements

Further useful information for dental health advice and products

  • PDSA dental care video on ‘how to brush your dog’s teeth’ [insert url tbc]
  • Healthy dog treats – www.doggytreat.co.uk/anco-naturals
  • Natural food supplements for pets – www.healthfulpets.co.uk

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