At All Furry Tales, we know that you all love those cuddles and kisses from our pets —but if their breath could knock you over, it might be more than just a stinky snack! Dental problems are super common in pets, and many pet parents don’t even realise their fur babies are in pain until it gets serious .
Let’s explore 5 warning signs your pet might have dental issues and the top-rated pet products to help prevent or fix the problem.
1. Bad Breath (And Not the Usual Kind)
Mild pet breath is normal, but if it smells like something’s rotting —it’s time to investigate! Bad breath often means bacteria, plaque, or even an infection is building up.
What to do: Brushing your pet’s teeth is your best defense! Use a pet-friendly toothpaste—never human toothpaste (it’s toxic to them!).All-natural ingredients, gentle on gums, and a long-time bestseller on Amazon with thousands of happy reviewers!
2. Excessive Drooling
Not all pets drool a lot, especially cats! So if your pet is suddenly leaving puddles on the floor (and it’s not from excitement over food), they could be dealing with tooth pain or a mouth infection.
What to do: Until you can get to a vet, consider switching to soft food and adding a dental water additive to help fight bacteria.
Just add to their water! It freshens breath and supports healthy gums without any brushing needed.
3. Eating Less or Dropping Food
Is your pet acting like they’re hungry but not finishing their food? Chewing on one side, dropping kibble, or avoiding meals can be signs of a sore tooth or inflamed gums.
What to do: Offer wet food or softened kibble to reduce pressure on sore spots. Then, book a vet visit to check for underlying dental issues.
Just add to their water! It freshens breath and supports healthy gums without any brushing needed.
4. Swollen, Red, or Bleeding Gums
If you gently lift your pet’s lips and see redness, bleeding, or swelling, it’s likely a sign of gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease . You may even spot loose or discoloured teeth.
What to do: A vet dental exam is essential. But to help prevent this in the future, make daily oral care a habit!
“Pain can also affect your pet’s body language. Learn what their tail, ears, and posture really mean in our post on dog body language decoded.
5. Pawing at the Mouth or Face
If your pet is rubbing their face on the ground or pawing at their mouth constantly, it might mean something hurts inside—like a broken tooth, ulcer, or even a stuck object .
What to do: Avoid poking around too much unless it’s clearly safe. Get your pet seen by a vet ASAP.
The Best Dental Routine for Your Pet
Preventing dental issues is easier than treating them later. Aim for:
- Daily brushing
- Dental treats
- Water additives
- Annual vet dental checks
Don’t forget—most dental issues start below the gumline, where you can’t see. Your vet might recommend professional cleanings, especially for older pets.
Final Woofs & Meows
Dental health is often overlooked, but it’s a BIG part of your pet’s overall wellbeing. If you notice bad breath, drooling, changes in eating, or mouth discomfort, don’t wait! Catching it early can save your pet a lot of pain—and you a lot of vet bills.
Keep their tails wagging and purrs going strong by building a simple dental care routine today
“Dental issues can get worse with allergies, especially in spring. 🌸 Learn how to manage spring allergies in pets to keep your fur baby comfy all season long.”
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