You love your pet, and you want to do everything in your power to keep them healthy. You may already know that dental health is an important aspect of your dog or cat's overall well-being, but did you know that periodontal, or gum, disease is the most common clinical condition in pets over age 3?
Perhaps your veterinarian has started to recommend that you brush your pet's teeth at home. Now, you've found yourself wondering which cat toothpaste or dog toothpaste to use and how exactly to start an oral hygiene routine for your furry friend. Here's what you need to know to keep your pet's pearly whites healthy.
Should You Brush Your Pet's Teeth?
Before you jump in, check with your vet. If your dog has advanced dental disease or if your cat has tooth enamel defects (called resorptive lesions), brushing their teeth will be painful and won't solve the problem.
Brushing your pet's teeth is most effective when you start with a clean slate. If you can, start while they're young before periodontal disease begins to set in. Brushing can also work well right after your pet gets a professional dental cleaning at their vet's office. From there, cleaning your dog or cat's teeth prevents plaque buildup. Brushing alone can't remove tartar (hardened plaque), so it's all about prevention.
Brushing your pet's teeth daily not only helps to prevent gum disease but can also reduce the need for professional dental cleanings under general anesthesia. Cleaner, healthier teeth often mean fewer tooth extractions or other oral surgeries down the road as well. This is much easier on your pet, and it saves you from expensive vet bills!
What is the Best Toothpaste for Your Dog or Cat?
Pet toothpaste is different from human toothpaste, so this is one thing you can't share with your furry friend. Luckily, many toothpastes out there are formulated with your pal in mind. These pet-friendly pastes come in a variety of tempting flavors, such as beef, chicken and fish. Some brands simply make "pet toothpaste," rather than designating it as "dog toothpaste" or "cat toothpaste."
Whatever you choose, it's best to use a commercial toothpaste and skip homemade pastes. Commercial pastes are specially designed to be safe for your pet to ingest, while DIY toothpaste leaves room for error.
Ingredients to Avoid
The main difference between human and pet dental products is that cat and dog toothpaste avoids ingredients that can be harmful to your pet if swallowed. Here are some ingredients that shouldn't be on your pet toothpaste label:
- Fluoride. This key ingredient in many human toothpastes can be toxic to pets if swallowed.
- Xylitol. An artificial sweetener, xylitol is sometimes used in human toothpaste formulas. This ingredient is highly toxic and doesn't belong in anything that goes into your pet's mouth.
- Baking soda. Baking soda has a bitter taste, and it's important to make toothbrushing a positive experience for your pet. Also, it can upset your dog or cat's tummy if ingested.
The best way to pick a toothpaste for your canine or feline companion is to ask your vet for recommendations. Another reliable source is the Veterinary Oral Health Council, which lists approved products that are safe and beneficial for pet dental hygiene. The council tests the products independently and is the gold standard for pet dental health.
Tasty Tips
Selecting a Pet Toothbrush
The next step is choosing a toothbrush. This decision comes down to personal preference for you and your pet, but when shopping for a toothbrush, always get soft or extra-soft bristles — nothing firm. Also, pay attention to size. Pet-specific toothbrushes for tiny to large mouths are available.
Some pet parents find that a baby or toddler (yes, human) toothbrush works well. Another popular option is the finger brush, a small rubberized "brush" that slips over your finger. Many people love these and find them easier to maneuver along the gums and teeth, while others prefer not to have their finger in their cat or dog's mouth.
A third option is a simple gauze square with toothpaste on it. Like a rubber finger brush, this involves putting your finger in your pet's mouth. But if your furry friend won't tolerate a toothbrush or finger brush, it can do the trick.
Quick Tips for Brushing Your Pet's Teeth
So, you've selected your cat toothpaste, dog toothpaste or generic pet toothpaste, and you're ready to jump in and clean those chompers. Not so fast! Ease your pet into toothbrushing slowly. The ultimate goal is to brush your dog or cat's teeth every day, but you'll need to get them used to the feeling.
First — and this may come as a surprise — you don't need to open your pet's mouth to brush their teeth. Ever. Cats and dogs don't like this, and it isn't beneficial. With that said, here are the basic steps:
- Choose a time you know you can stick to on a regular basis. Pets love routine. Try pairing toothbrushing with another part of your daily routine to help you remember, such as when you take your vitamins before bed.
- To begin, let them lick the toothpaste off the brush. Some pets prefer one flavor of dog toothpaste or cat toothpaste over the other, and it might take some trial and error. Once they've given you the seal of approval, start brushing gradually. In general, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste per side. Bigger dogs may need more, while cats and small dogs will need less.
- Slip the toothbrush or finger brush under their cheek and brush, brush, brush. Then go to the other side (you may add more toothpaste here) and brush. Finally, hit the front teeth. The whole process takes about 30 seconds. If your pet likes brushing, you can work up to a minute over time.
Keeping your dog's teeth healthy and your cat's chompers in good shape is an important part of being a pet parent. And while it might sound like a hassle, brushing your pet's teeth every day can easily become part of your daily routine. Sometimes, topping off brushing with a special treat or quick play session can add to the fun. In the end, your dedication will pay off with more one-on-one time and a healthier pet.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Entrée Variety Pack
Feline Sensitive Stomach & Skin Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley
Delicious tender chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce with precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Beef Dinner
Gourmet daily nutrition, carefully made. Tasty chunks with chicken & beef in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Beef & Zucchini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Beef Entrée Cat Food
Delicious taste of gourmet minced beef in precisely balanced nutrition. Provides a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Puppy No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye, muscle, bone & immune system development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Ocean Fish Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition to help avoid the formation of hairballs with the delicious taste of savory minced ocean fish
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Vegetable Entrée dog food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Vegetables Stew Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Ocean Fish & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports the developmental needs of kittens to help start life with healthy growth and a strong immune system
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Tuna Dinner
Carefully made, gourmet daily nutrition. Tasty chunks with Salmon & Tuna in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports brain health and beautiful fur in mature cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Related articles
Benefits of Antioxidants for Dogs and Cats
A gray cat and German shepherd dog lie beside each other on a white carpet
What to Do for a Dog or Cat Tail Injury
Worried if your cat or dog has a broken tail? Learn if it's actually possible for your pet to break their tail and what to do if you suspect an injury.
Do Dogs and Cats have Belly Buttons?
Learn whether cats & dogs have belly buttons like humans, what the function is, and if there are any health concerns associated with it.
Expectations for Visiting an Animal Shelter
If you're considering a pet shelter adoption, you may have a lot of questions. Learn how to prepare for your visit.
What Human Food Does to Your Pet: Human Caloric Equivalents
Use this this human food equivalent chart to see what effect feeding your pet table scraps really has on their daily caloric intake.
Vet Recommended Pet Food Explained
Vet recommended. You see the words on everything from pet food to flea medication. But what does it mean and why should you pay attention?
Benefits of Soy in Your Pet's Food
Learn the benefits soy beans can provide in pet food, including high sources of protein, fiber and vitamins.
How to Care for Terminally Ill Pets
Terminal illness is one of the toughest things pet parents face. Learn how to handle caring for a terminally ill pet with end of life care.
Is Corn Bad for Pets?
Learn how corn can play a pivotal role in your pet's food and diet. Discover the benefits it has in improving your pet's overall health.
Flea and Tick Medication: Oral vs. Topical Treatments
Learn the difference between oral vs. topical flea and tick medications so that you can decide which one might be most effective for your dog or cat.
Virtual Vet Visits: What You Need to Know
Learn the ins and outs of a televet appointment before you talk to a vet online.
Pet Spas: A Guide to Pet Pampering & Treatments
Discover typical services at pet spas, when you might need a grooming pro and tips for grooming your kitty or pooch at home.
What to Expect After a Pet Cancer Diagnosis
Learn important considerations following a pet cancer diagnosis, including treatment choices, general expectations and information on palliative care.
Can Dogs & Cats Have Avocados? (& Are They Safe?)
Even though avocados are healthy for humans, discover whether they're safe for dogs & cats (including details on potentially harmful ingredients for pets).
Pet Food Sharing: Can Cats Eat Dog Food? (& Vice Versa?)
Learn whether it's safe for cats and dogs to eat each other's food, nutritional concerns to be aware of, and how to discourage this behavior.
Importance of DHA in your Pet's Food
Learn about DHA, Docosahexaenoic Acid, a natural omega-3 fatty acid that is essential in the development of the brain and nervous system in cats & dogs.
Reasons to Be Thankful for Your Pet This Year
Learn some of the heart-warming reasons that you should be thankful for your pet this Thanksgiving holiday.
Adopting a Blind Dog or Cat: What You Need to Know
If you're considering adopting a blind pet, learn tips & considerations for living with a blind cat or dog and how to prepare your home for a blind pet.
Can Dogs and Cats Eat Butter?
Learn all about whether butter is safe for your dog or cat and what to do if they eat it.
Hilarious Reasons We’re All Thankful for Our Pets This Year
In this season of thanks make sure to include why you’re thankful for your pet. I’m sure a handful of these will resonate well with you.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.