Companion Animals

Companion Animal Dental Disease Prevention

Dental disease affects over 80% of dogs and cats over the age of 3 and is a major source of chronic pain that is largely preventable through home care and regular veterinary checks.

Key Facts

An estimated 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by age 3
Periodontal disease causes chronic oral pain, tooth loss, and can affect heart and kidney health
Daily tooth brushing is the most effective home prevention method
Dental chews, water additives, and dental diets provide partial benefit where brushing is not possible
Regular veterinary dental scaling prevents disease progression at all life stages

Welfare Considerations

Dental disease is one of the most prevalent and undertreated welfare problems in companion animals. Pets cannot communicate oral pain in the way humans do, and owners frequently do not recognise that their pet is in chronic discomfort. Changes in eating behaviour, head shaking, and reluctance to be touched near the mouth are common signs that are missed or attributed to other causes. Early prevention through dental home care is far preferable to extensive treatment.

What You Can Do

Start tooth brushing in puppies and kittens before adult teeth erupt
Ask your vet to assess your pet's dental health at every annual check
Use VOHC-approved dental products where brushing is not possible
Schedule dental cleaning under anaesthesia when your vet recommends it
Do not give bones that can fracture teeth - use vet-approved dental chews