Wondering how to keep your best friend’s teeth healthy and spot trouble early? In this guide, we look at gum disease in dogs & cats, from early-stage gingivitis to the more serious periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
What is Periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is an extremely common, painful, and progressive bacterial infection of the gums and tooth-supporting structures. Affecting over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats by age two, it starts as reversible gingivitis from plaque build-up and can escalate to irreversible bone and tooth loss.
How to Spot the Signs
Because pets mask their discomfort, owners often miss early warning signs, attributing behavioural changes to a pet “just getting older”. Look for:
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis) (the most common and noticeable symptom).
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
- Crusted yellow or brown tartar along the gumline.
- Difficulty eating (dropping food, chewing on only one side, or avoiding hard treats).
- Changes in behaviour (grumpiness, lethargy, or reluctance to play).
Breed Predispositions
While any pet can develop dental disease, it is particularly prevalent in smaller, toy, and flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds. In the UK, high-risk breeds include Greyhounds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pugs.
Why Early Treatment is Critical
If left unchecked, the bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause serious, systemic issues for your pet, including heart, liver, and kidney damage. The most effective and gold-standard treatment is a professional scale, polish, and dental assessment under general anaesthesia.
Best Practices for Prevention
- Daily Tooth Brushing: This remains the most effective way to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. Use pet-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste, as it is toxic).
- Veterinary Checks: Ensure your pet has an oral health check during their annual vaccination.
- Dental Aids: High-quality dental chews or specifically formulated diets can help reduce plaque, though they do not replace brushing.
Other trusted resources:
- Read the PDSA Dental Disease Guide for an accessible overview of symptoms and treatment pathways.
- Check the Agria Pet Insurance Gum Disease Guide to understand the four stages of periodontal disease.
- Review the Cats Protection Teeth and Oral Health Leaflet for advice tailored specifically to felines. [1, 2, 3]