Dental disease is the most common health problem in dogs and cats, causing chronic pain that is frequently unrecognised and undertreated by owners and sometimes by veterinarians.
Dental disease represents a chronic welfare burden affecting the majority of companion animals in the UK and beyond, yet it receives far less attention than acute welfare problems. Animals with advanced periodontal disease experience persistent pain that affects their ability to eat, play, and interact normally. Because animals instinctively hide pain signals, owners frequently fail to recognise dental disease until it is advanced. Regular veterinary dental checks, early intervention, and consistent home dental care are essential for preventing the chronic suffering associated with untreated periodontal disease. Improving dental welfare awareness among companion animal owners is one of the most impactful areas for improving day-to-day pet welfare at population scale.