Is Your Pet at Risk for Dental Disease?

Did you know that 70-80% of cats and dogs develop some form of dental disease by the age of three? Dental health is one of the most overlooked aspects of pet care, yet it plays a crucial role in your pet’s overall health.

February is Pet Dental Health Month—a time to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene and help pet owners recognize the early signs of dental disease before it leads to serious health problems.

At Forest Hill Veterinary Hospital in Auburn, WA, we want to help you determine if your pet is at risk for dental disease and what steps you can take to keep their teeth healthy.

5 Key Factors to Consider: Dental Disease in Cats and Dogs

Dental disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. Over time, this disease leads to gum infections, tooth decay, and even bone loss if left untreated.

Not all pets develop dental disease at the same rate. Some are at higher risk due to their breed, diet, or lack of dental care. Here are five major risk factors to consider:

1. Your Pet’s Age

• Young pets may have healthy teeth, but plaque can start building up early.
• Middle-aged pets (3-7 years old) are at higher risk if they’ve never had a dental cleaning.
• Senior pets (7+ years old) often have advanced dental disease, which can lead to tooth loss and infections.

2. Your Pet’s Breed

Some breeds of cats and dogs are more prone to dental disease or other dental issues than others. If your pet’s breed is at higher risk, they may need more frequent dental checkups and cleanings. Talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s dental health and whether they may be at higher risk of developing issues.

3. Diet & Chewing Habits

Certain pet foods contribute to faster plaque buildup since the type of food is more likely to stick to teeth. Lack of chewing (not using dental chews or kibble) can increase tartar formation. Chewing on hard toys or bones can cause cracked teeth or other dental issues in your pet. Ask your vet about dental-friendly diets or treats that help prevent plaque buildup.

4. Poor Oral Hygiene

If you don’t brush your pet’s teeth, plaque and tartar can form in as little as 24 hours. Without regular tooth brushing and dental cleanings:

• Plaque hardens into tartar
• Tartar causes gum inflammation
• Gum inflammation leads to painful infections and tooth loss

Brush your pet’s teeth at least 3 times per week and schedule annual professional pet dental cleanings.

5. Pre-Existing Health Conditions

Certain health conditions increase the risk of dental disease. Dental disease itself can also make some health conditions worse. These health conditions that many pets experience include diabetes, kidney disease, and immune system disorders. If your cat or dog has any of these conditions, they may need extra dental care from a veterinarian to prevent complications.

Signs Your Pet May Already Have Dental Disease

• Bad breath that doesn’t go away
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Excessive drooling
• Brown or yellow tartar buildup
• Difficulty chewing or dropping food
• Loose or missing teeth

If your pet is showing any of these signs, they likely already have some stage of dental disease. Schedule a dental checkup at our veterinary hospital in Auburn!

How to Protect Your Pet’s Oral Health

The good news? Dental disease is preventable! Here’s how to keep your pet’s teeth healthy:

Brush Their Teeth Regularly

• Use a pet-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste).
• Brush at least 3 times per week—daily is ideal!
• Start slow and use positive reinforcement to build a routine.

Provide Dental Chews & Toys

• Offer veterinarian-approved dental treats.
• Use rubber or textured chew toys that scrape away plaque.
• Avoid excessively hard bones that can crack teeth.

Schedule Regular Professional Cleanings

• Annual exams and dental cleanings are the best way to prevent serious disease.
• During a pet dental cleaning, a veterinary team will remove tartar buildup, check for infections, and assess overall oral health.

Take Action This Pet Dental Health Month

Is your pet at risk for dental disease? The best way to find out is with a professional dental checkup at Forest Hill Veterinary Hospital. February is Pet Dental Health Month, making it the perfect time to assess your pet’s oral health and prevent future issues. Book your pet’s dental exam today by calling (253) 833-9100. A healthy mouth leads to a happy life!