Welfare of Animals in Pet Dental Care

Dental disease is the most common health problem in companion animals, yet it is among the most preventable, and poor dental health causes chronic pain in millions of cats and dogs.

Key Facts

Over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats over 3 years old have some degree of periodontal disease
Dental disease causes chronic pain that animals cannot communicate and owners rarely recognize
Professional dental cleaning requires general anesthesia with its associated welfare risks
Daily tooth brushing from puppyhood significantly reduces lifelong dental disease
Chewing behaviors satisfy natural needs AND reduce tartar buildup in dogs

Welfare Considerations

Dental pain in companion animals is chronic, invisible, and extremely common. Animals with painful dental disease continue eating — their survival drive overrides pain communication — so owners frequently miss the problem. Research shows animals with severe dental disease demonstrate behavioral changes including reduced playfulness, food preference shifts, and facial sensitivity that resolve after dental treatment. Regular professional dental care under anesthesia is the evidence-based welfare intervention, supplemented by home dental care.

What You Can Do

Have your veterinarian assess your pet dental health at every annual examination
Begin tooth brushing training for puppies and kittens as early as possible
Provide appropriate dental chews or toys that are safe and reduce tartar buildup
Schedule professional dental cleaning when your vet identifies significant periodontal disease