More than half of pets over 3 already have some dental trouble. And it's not just a matter of bad breath: tartar hurts and, over time, puts a strain on the heart, liver and kidneys.
Signs of a problem
If you spot any of these, don't brush them off:
- Strong mouth odour
- Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth
- Red gums that bleed
- Trouble eating, drooling
Start slowly
Get your pet used to brushing from young: a few seconds at a time and always a reward at the end. Even 3–4 times a week makes a huge difference.
Why it matters
The bacteria building up on the gums don't stay in the mouth. They get into the bloodstream and put a strain on internal organs. So by looking after the teeth, you're protecting the whole body — sounds like an exaggeration, but it isn't.
Professional cleaning
Once tartar has formed, it needs an ultrasonic clean under anaesthesia. It's the only way to clean properly — and, most importantly, below the gumline, where the eye can't reach. It's always done with a pre-op check and monitoring.
Prevention at home
The single most effective thing is regular brushing — with pet toothpaste, never human. Dental diets, dental chews and chew toys help too.