24 Jan Signs of Dental Disease in Pets You Should Never Ignore
Just like humans, pets need proper dental care to maintain good overall health. While it might be tempting to overlook your pet’s dental hygiene, it’s important to recognize that dental disease is one of the most common health issues among cats and dogs. Left untreated, dental problems can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even more serious health complications.
7 Signs of Dental Disease in Pets
Here are some signs of dental disease in pets that you should never ignore.
- Bad Breath (Halitosis)
If your pet’s breath suddenly starts to smell bad, it could be an early sign of dental disease. Persistent foul odor often indicates a buildup of bacteria due to plaque and tartar accumulation.
- Excessive Drooling or Drool Staining
A pet that drools excessively, especially when it’s unusual for them, might be suffering from dental issues. Salivation often increases when there is an infection or irritation in the mouth. Pets may drool more when chewing or eating, and this can sometimes result in staining on the fur around the mouth. If this is happening consistently, a vet visit is essential to rule out infections or abscesses.
- Difficulty Eating or Chewing
If your pet is struggling to eat or chew its food properly, it’s a sign that something might be wrong with their teeth or gums. Pets with dental pain may drop food, chew on one side of their mouth, or even avoid eating altogether. This behavior is especially concerning if it occurs suddenly and is paired with weight loss or decreased appetite. Chewing difficulties could indicate broken teeth, gum disease, or oral infections.
- Pawing at the Mouth or Face
Pets often communicate discomfort by pawing at or rubbing their face. If your cat or dog frequently paws at their mouth, chin, or jaw, it could be a sign that they are experiencing dental pain. This behavior may also be accompanied by whining, growling, or hiding, indicating that the problem is causing significant discomfort.
- Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums
Gum inflammation is one of the first signs of periodontal disease in pets. Healthy gums should be pink and firm, but gums affected by dental disease may appear red, swollen, or even bleed when touched. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can cause noticeable irritation and discomfort, and if left untreated, it can progress to more severe periodontal disease, which affects the structures that support the teeth.
- Loose or Missing Teeth
Pets with advanced dental disease may have loose, broken, or missing teeth. If you notice that your pet has trouble picking up toys, chewing bones, or even eating kibble, check for loose teeth. Teeth that are visibly loose or missing are a clear sign that the underlying dental issue has progressed significantly and requires professional intervention.
- Behavioral Changes or Irritability
Painful dental issues can make your pet irritable or withdrawn. A normally playful dog or cat may become more lethargic or aggressive, especially when their mouth is touched. If your pet is showing signs of discomfort or unusual behavior, it could be due to dental pain affecting their quality of life.
Conclusion
Dental disease in pets can lead to severe complications, including infections that spread to vital organs like the heart and kidneys. Recognizing the early signs of dental problems can help prevent long-term damage and improve your pet’s comfort and health. Most importantly, it is vital to remember that most pets show NO behavioral signs of periodontal disease.
They very rarely stop eating or act painful, even when we know that they have painful disease in their mouths. For this reason, regular dental checkups are of paramount importance to your pet’s health. In between checkups, brushing your pet’s teeth, and providing dental chews can go a long way.
If you notice any of the above signs, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment. Don’t wait for the problem to worsen—your pet’s well-being depends on it!
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (01/24/2025) Photo by Chewy on Unsplash
