As pet owners, we do everything we can to keep our furry friends happy and healthy. But when it comes to dental health, many issues go unnoticed simply because pets are experts at hiding pain. Unlike humans, they won’t whine about a toothache or stop eating entirely when something is wrong. Instead, the signs of dental trouble can be subtle—so subtle that they often get brushed off as “normal aging” or quirky behavior.
We see firsthand how untreated dental issues can lead to serious health problems. Let’s go beyond bad breath and explore the less obvious signs that your pet may be dealing with dental pain.
1. Eating Habits Have Changed, but Appetite Hasn’t
Many pet owners assume that if their pet is eating, their teeth must be fine. But that’s not always true. Pets with dental pain may still have an appetite, but they adjust how they eat to avoid discomfort. Watch for these changes:
- Chewing on one side of the mouth
- Dropping food while eating
- Taking longer to finish meals
- Avoiding hard food or treats they used to love
These are often early signs of dental pain caused by inflamed gums, broken teeth, or infections.
2. Pawing at the Mouth or Face
If you notice your pet rubbing their face against furniture, scratching at their mouth, or pawing at their muzzle more often, it could be a sign of irritation or pain. This behavior is sometimes mistaken for an allergy or an itch, but in many cases, it’s an attempt to relieve dental discomfort.
3. Excessive Drooling or Blood in Saliva
While some breeds naturally drool more than others, a sudden increase in drooling can indicate an issue. If the drool is thick, stringy, or has a reddish tint, it could mean your pet has inflamed gums, an abscess, or an oral ulcer.
If you notice blood on their chew toys, bedding, or water bowl, don’t ignore it. Bleeding gums can be a sign of periodontal disease or a loose tooth that may need veterinary attention.
4. Reluctance to Play with Toys or Chew
Dogs and cats love to chew—it’s a natural behavior that helps keep their teeth clean. But if your pet suddenly loses interest in their favorite chew toys or avoids tug-of-war games, it might be because their mouth is too painful.
For cats, this could also mean avoiding grooming, as licking and biting their fur becomes uncomfortable. If you notice their coat looking more unkempt than usual, it’s worth checking their teeth.
5. Unpleasant Breath That Won’t Go Away
Yes, pets can have bad breath, but there’s a difference between normal “dog breath” and the foul odor caused by dental disease. If your pet’s breath has taken on a strong, rotten, or sour smell, it could indicate:
- Bacteria buildup from plaque and tartar
- Gum infections
- Tooth decay
- An abscess forming under the gumline
Chronic bad breath is never just a minor inconvenience—it’s often a warning sign of an underlying issue.
6. Swelling Around the Mouth or Jaw
Facial swelling, especially around the jaw or under the eyes, can indicate a tooth root abscess. This occurs when bacteria invade deep into the tooth, leading to a painful infection. If left untreated, it can spread to other areas of the body and cause more serious health complications.
7. Behavior Changes and Increased Irritability
A normally affectionate pet that suddenly becomes withdrawn, grumpy, or even aggressive may be in pain. Dental discomfort can make pets more sensitive to being touched around the face or head. If your pet growls, flinches, or pulls away when you try to pet them near their mouth, it’s time for a dental checkup.
Why Early Detection Matters
Ignoring dental pain doesn’t just affect your pet’s mouth—it can lead to much bigger health problems. Bacteria from untreated gum disease can enter the bloodstream and contribute to issues like heart disease, kidney disease, and systemic infections.
The good news? Regular dental checkups and cleanings can prevent most of these problems before they become serious.
What You Can Do to Help
- Schedule regular dental exams. Even if your pet seems fine, annual checkups can catch issues early.
- Brush their teeth at home. It may take time for them to get used to it, but daily brushing helps prevent plaque buildup.
- Use dental-friendly treats and toys. Look for products approved by veterinarians that help clean teeth as they chew.
- Pay attention to changes in behavior. Subtle signs of pain are easy to miss—trust your instincts if something seems off.
At Alta Vista Animal Hospital, we’re here to help keep your pet’s teeth and gums in top shape. If you’ve noticed any of these signs or just want to stay ahead of dental problems, schedule a checkup with us today. A healthy mouth leads to a happier, pain-free life for your pet.
