Companion Animals

Companion Animal Dental Disease Prevention

Dental disease is the most common health problem in companion animals, with prevention through daily brushing, dental diets, and regular professional cleaning significantly improving welfare.

Key Facts

Over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show dental disease signs by age 3
Dental disease causes chronic pain often unrecognised by owners
Daily tooth brushing is the gold standard prevention requiring training from early age
Dental chews and water additives reduce but don't eliminate dental plaque
Professional dental cleaning under anaesthesia treats established disease

Welfare Considerations

Companion animal dental welfare requires owner commitment to daily preventive care and regular veterinary assessment. The chronic pain of untreated dental disease is a major welfare concern in companion animals. Starting dental care from puppyhood and kittenhood establishes lifelong health habits.

What You Can Do

Start tooth brushing training from puppyhood and kittenhood for best compliance
Schedule annual dental assessments with your veterinarian
Use veterinary-approved dental care products as adjuncts to brushing