When we think about pain in our pets, we often imagine arthritis, injuries, or aging. But one of the most common and most overlooked sources of discomfort in dogs and cats is dental disease. Because pets can’t tell us when their teeth hurt, dental pain can go unnoticed for months or even years, affecting their health, behaviour, and quality of life.
Why Dental Pain Goes Unnoticed
Dogs and cats are experts at hiding pain. In the wild, showing weakness could make them vulnerable, so they’ve evolved to mask discomfort. That means even if your pet has a painful tooth, you might not see obvious signs like whining or pawing at their mouth.
Why Dental Pain Goes Unnoticed
Dogs and cats are experts at hiding pain. In the wild, showing weakness could make them vulnerable, so they’ve evolved to mask discomfort. That means even if your pet has a painful tooth, you might not see obvious signs like whining or pawing at their mouth.
Dental Pain Often Shows Up in Subtle Ways, Such As:
- Eating more slowly or chewing on one side
- Dropping food while eating
- Bad breath (a sign of infection or decay)
- Pawing at the face or rubbing the mouth on surfaces
- Avoiding hard toys or treats they used to enjoy
- Behavioural changes, such as irritability or reduced activity
Common Causes of Dental Pain in Pets
- Periodontal Disease – Inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, affecting up to 80% of dogs and cats over age three.
- Tooth Fractures – Broken teeth can expose the sensitive pulp, causing intense pain.
- Resorptive Lesions (Cats) – A very common condition where a cat’s tooth slowly breaks down, often leaving painful lesions at the gum line.
- Abscesses or Infections – Bacterial buildup can lead to swelling, pus, and systemic illness if untreated.
Why Dental Health Matters Beyond the Mouth
Dental pain isn’t just about teeth, it can impact your pet’s entire body. Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, potentially damaging the heart, kidneys, and liver. That’s why untreated dental disease can shorten a pet’s lifespan.
Helping Pets Live Pain Free
The good news: dental pain is preventable and treatable. Here’s how you can help:
- Dental Check ups every 6 months – 1 year: Regular checkups with your vet can catch issues early.
- Professional Cleanings: Scaling and polishing by your vet, if required, can prevent gum disease.
- At Home Dental Care: Brushing your pet’s teeth, using vet approved dental chews, or adding dental rinses to their routine.
- Diet: There are specially formulated diets to help reduce buildup of tartar. Browse our Dog or Cat range.
- Watch for Subtle Signs: If your pet’s behaviour changes, consider dental pain as a possible cause.
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