February is Pet Dental Health Month, making it the perfect time to focus on an often overlooked part of pet wellness: oral care. According to the Quebec Veterinary Association, about 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats over the age of three show signs of periodontal disease, making dental care a critical part of overall wellness. Dental issues do not just affect your pet’s mouth. If left untreated, bacteria from plaque and tartar buildup can enter the bloodstream and impact the immune system, as well as the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Good dental hygiene helps prevent pain, infection, and tooth decay, while also supporting overall health, fresher breath, and a better quality of life. Building simple dental habits at home can make a meaningful difference for pets of all ages.

Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Issues

Pets are very good at hiding discomfort, which is why dental problems can often go unnoticed. Some common signs to watch for include:

• Bad breath that does not improve
• Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Dropping food and difficulty chewing
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Decreased appetite or changes in eating habits
• Blood on bones or chew toys

If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to review your pet’s dental routine and speak with a veterinarian.

Daily and Weekly Dental Care Habits

Consistent care at home is one of the most effective ways to support your pet’s long-term oral health. Even small habits can add up over time and creating a routine that fits your pet’s comfort level will help make dental care less stressful and more effective.

Daily habits

Brushing your pet’s teeth using a pet-safe toothpaste is the gold standard for regular dental maintenance. Enzymatic toothpastes like Arm & Hammer Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs help break down plaque and bacteria without needing to be rinsed, making them ideal for pets and a great way to support oral health at home. See more toothpaste options for cats & dogs below.

Weekly habits

Incorporating dental chews or textured toys a few times a week can help reduce plaque buildup while keeping your pet engaged. Options like Cymbia Pets Oral Care Chews for Cats and for Dogs provide tasty, daily support when used alongside brushing, not as a replacement.

Products That Can Help Build an At-Home Dental Kit

Having a simple dental kit at home makes it easier to stay consistent with oral care. A well‑rounded kit should ideally include:

• Enzymatic toothpaste, such as PetSmile Professional Toothpaste,  gently cleanses, re-mineralize, and reduces plaque with Calprox, a safe calcium peroxide and mineral blend.

• Convenient toothpaste applicator swabs, like the PetSmile Pet Toothpaste Applicator Swab, makes applying toothpaste easier & faster for pets who are fussy or new to brushing

• A dual‑ended toothbrush, like the PetSmile Professional Dual‑End Pet Toothbrush, offers different brush sizes for better reach and a more thorough clean..

• Dental chews, such as the KONG Squeezz Dental Stick, for dogs encourage chewing while helping clean teeth

• Textured dental toys, like the KONG Squeezz Dental Ball, which add variety to dental routines and support oral stimulation

• Oral Chews like the Proudly Made in Canada Cymbia Pets Oral Care+ Chews for Cats and for Dogs are tasty, all-natural treats that help promote fresh breath and oral health. 

• A dental water additive such as Skouts Honour Water Additive, suitable for cats and dogs, is clinically proven to reduce tartar and freshen breath when added to every day drinking water.

Combining brushing with chews, toys, and water additives can make dental care more routine & approachable for you and your pets.

When to Seek Professional Dental Care

Even with excellent at-home care, professional dental exams and cleanings remain essential. Annual veterinary checkups allow dental issues to be identified and treated early, before they become painful or more severe and costly to treat.

A veterinarian may recommend a professional cleaning if there is significant tartar buildup, gum inflammation, loose teeth, or signs of infection. Regular cleanings, paired with consistent home care, offer the best long-term protection for your pet’s oral health.

Healthy Teeth Support Happier Pets

Dental health plays a vital role in your pet’s overall wellness. By building simple daily habits, using supportive dental products, and scheduling regular veterinary checkups, pet parents can help ensure their pets stay comfortable, healthy, and happy for years to come.

February is a great reminder to check on your pet’s oral health, but dental care is a year-round commitment that truly pays off!