.png)
.png)
Is Brushing Your Dog or Cat's Teeth Necessary?
- chrisandtonya519
- Jul 24
- 4 min read
Beyond February: Why Pet Dental Health Matters Every Day of the Year
While February marks National Pet Dental Health Month here in both Canada and the US, the truth is that our cats and dogs need dental care attention 365 days a year. Just like humans, cats and dogs can suffer from painful dental diseases that affect not only their mouths but their overall health and quality of life.
At B&T Pets, we believe in supporting your pet's wellness through every season, which is why we're diving deep into the importance of maintaining excellent oral hygiene mid way between successive dental awareness months.
In this post, we will discuss:
Why Pet Dental Health Matters
Dental disease affects over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats by age three, making it one of the most common health issues veterinarians encounter.
Poor dental hygiene doesn't just cause bad breath – it can lead to:
Painful tooth loss and gum disease
Bacterial infections that can spread to vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys
Difficulty eating, leading to nutritional deficiencies
Behavioral changes due to chronic pain
Expensive veterinary procedures that could have been prevented
The mouth is the gateway to your pet's body, and maintaining oral health is crucial for their overall wellbeing.
Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Problems
Persistent bad breath
Yellow/brown tartar buildup on teeth
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Difficulty chewing or eating
Pawing at the face or mouth
Loose or missing teeth
Two Approaches to Pet Dental Care
Option 1: Brushing Your Pet's Teeth
Regular brushing remains the gold standard for pet dental care.
However, we understand this can be challenging for many pet parents. If you're up for the task:
Use pet-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste, which contains toxic xylitol)
Start slowly with finger brushing to get your pet comfortable
Gradually introduce a pet toothbrush
Aim for daily brushing, but even 2-3 times per week makes a difference
Always reward with praise and treats to create positive associations
Option 2: Dental Treats and Chews – The Natural Solution
For pets who resist brushing or as a supplement to regular dental care, natural dental treats offer an excellent alternative. The mechanical action of chewing helps scrape away plaque and tartar while promoting healthy gums.
The Power of All-Natural Dental Treats
Not all dental treats are created equal. Many commercial options are loaded with artificial ingredients, preservatives, and fillers that can upset sensitive stomachs.
All-natural, single- or limited-ingredient treats offer superior benefits:
Pure nutrition: No artificial additives or questionable ingredients
Digestibility: Easier on sensitive stomachs and ideal for pets with allergies
Texture variety: Different textures provide varying levels of dental cleaning action
Novel proteins: Great for pets with food sensitivities
Top Natural Dental Treat Options
Duck Necks: These are fantastic for medium to large dogs. The bones are soft enough to be safely consumed while providing excellent scraping action against teeth. Rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, they also support joint health.
Bunny Feet: Don't let the name fool you – these are incredible dental chews! The fur acts as a natural dental floss, while the bones provide the perfect texture for removing plaque. They're also a novel protein source, making them ideal for dogs with common protein allergies.
Fish-Based Options: Dried fish treats like our Salmon Hugs provide a gentler option for smaller dogs and cats. The texture helps clean teeth while delivering omega-3 fatty acids for coat and skin health.
Dehydrated Meat Strips: Whether it's venison, elk, bison, or kangaroo, these novel protein strips require significant chewing, naturally cleaning teeth while providing high-quality nutrition.
Antlers and Bones: For determined chewers, naturally shed antlers and raw bones provide long-lasting dental benefits. Always supervise and choose appropriate sizes.
Creating a Comprehensive Dental Care Routine
The most effective approach combines multiple strategies:
Daily or regular brushing (if your pet tolerates it)
Natural dental treats as part of their regular routine
Annual veterinary dental checkups to catch problems early
High-quality diet that supports overall oral health
Fresh water available at all times
The B&T Pets Advantage
Our commitment to single-ingredient, minimally processed treats means you're giving your pet the purest form of nutrition possible. Our duck necks, bunny feet, and other novel protein options are:
Sourced from human-grade suppliers
Free from additives, preservatives, and fillers
Perfect for pets with allergies or sensitive stomachs
Made in small batches to ensure freshness and quality
Final Thoughts
While February may be National Pet Dental Health Month, your pet's teeth need attention every day of the year. Whether you choose brushing, natural dental treats, or a combination of both, the key is consistency.
Remember, preventing dental disease is always easier and less expensive than treating it.
By incorporating high-quality, natural dental treats into your pet's routine, you're not just cleaning their teeth – you're supporting their overall health and happiness. Because at B&T Pets, we believe every day is the right day to show your pet you care about their wellbeing.
Comments