28 Jul How Often Should You Brush Your Pet’s Teeth? A Vet’s Guide
Brushing a dog or cat’s teeth can seem a daunting challenge to many pet owners. Tooth brushing is the most effective way to help manage and prevent periodontal disease in both people and animals. Dogs and cats, especially small and toy breed dogs, are predisposed to periodontal disease, and starting them off with a tooth brushing routine while they’re young can be a great way to stay on top of their oral health.
Choosing the Right Toothpaste for Dogs and Cats
There are a variety of toothpastes on the market made specifically for dogs and cats. Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste is a great choice, as is Petsmile, which also offers a flavor free from animal proteins—common food allergens. The first step to acclimating your dog or cat to tooth brushing is to find a toothpaste that they enjoy. Dog and cat toothpastes come in a variety of flavors, including chicken, beef, seafood, and cheese.
How to Introduce Tooth Brushing to Your Pet
Once you find a toothpaste your pet likes, start by squirting a small amount onto your finger for them to lick off. Do this once a day at a predictable time, such as after you brush your own teeth in the evening or right after breakfast, so your pet comes to expect it and looks forward to it. As your pet gets used to this routine, you can progress to having them lick the toothpaste off the toothbrush after a few days to a week. Once your dog readily accepts this, you can start to gently brush the teeth.
Tips for a Low-Stress Brushing Routine
It is important to make this process as low-stress and enjoyable as possible. If your pet starts to show signs of resistance, take a step back and go back to the level that they’ll tolerate. After a few days, you can try to take it a step further again.
How Often Should You Brush Your Pet’s Teeth?
Daily tooth brushing is the gold standard for managing and preventing periodontal disease. Plaque begins to form just a few hours after you brush your teeth and hardens into calculus within about 48 hours.
The Best Toothbrush for Pets
Gentle, extra soft toothbrushes are safest and healthiest for the gums. For cats and small dogs, consider a children’s size toothbrush.
Keep Your Pet’s Smile Healthy
When it comes to your dog or cat’s oral health, consistency is key. How often should you brush your pet’s teeth? Ideally, every day—just like your own! A daily brushing routine helps prevent plaque buildup and supports long-term wellness.
If you have questions about dental care or need help starting a brushing routine for your pet, contact us today. Our team is here to support your pet’s health every step of the way.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (07/28/2025) Photo by Lena Koval on Unsplash