How to Reduce Dental Anxiety in Pets
Oral hygiene is one of the most important aspects of pet care, but also one of the most challenging. Dental anxiety, a common issue in pets, may make toothbrushing an ordeal for both of you. Following these suggestions could turn dental care into a more positive experience.
Start Slowly
If your pet has never received home dental care, the first oral hygiene session can be confusing and stressful. Your dog or cat isn't likely to be cooperative if you pry open its jaws and force a toothbrush into its mouth. A gradual approach to toothbrushing is a much better strategy.
Breaking up the process into several steps may make brushing easier. Practice each step daily for a week or two before moving on to the next step.
- Touch Your Pet's Face and Mouth
- Lift Your Pet's Upper Lip
- Gently Touch the Teeth and Gums
- Rub the Teeth and Gums with a Piece of Gauze or a Finger Brush
- Place a Small Amount of Pet Toothpaste on a Toothbrush, and Briefly Hold the Toothbrush Against Your Pet's Teeth
- Brush a Few Teeth at a Time, Gradually Increasing the Length of Brushing Sessions as Your Pet Becomes More Comfortable
You don't need to brush all the teeth at the same time. Until your pet gets used to toothbrushing, you may only be able to brush a few teeth at a time. If your pet doesn't like the toothbrush, continue to use a finger brush instead.
Perfect Your Brushing Technique
Choosing the right toothbrush is an important step in stress-free pet dental care. Human adult toothbrushes may be too big for your pet's mouth. Buy a pet toothbrush or a soft child's brush instead.
Don't overload the brush with toothpaste. "More is better" may apply to many things, but not to toothpaste. You'll only need to add a pea-sized amount of pet toothpaste to a pet toothbrush or finger brush.
Use toothpaste intended for pets. Human toothpaste may contain ingredients toxic to pets or might upset your pet's stomach and cause digestive issues.
Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle when you brush. Brushing too hard could irritate the gums and cause anxiety in future brushing sessions. The Colorado State University James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital notes that flared or flattened toothbrush bristles may mean you're applying too much pressure to the teeth.
Use Rewards
Rewards create a positive experience and help your pet understand that cooperating with toothbrushing has benefits. Treats may make dental care more appealing, but they aren't the only type of reward you can offer. After dental care sessions, you might also:
- Offer Praise
- Take Your Pet for a Walk
- Play a Favorite Game with Your Pet
- Provide Special Toys
Pick the Perfect Time
Dental care sessions may be more productive if you schedule them when your furry friend is most likely to be calm, such as after a walk, play time, or a meal. Brush your pet's teeth in a quiet place far from any distractions. Schedule dental care for the same time every day if possible.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
If your pet still has dental anxiety, your veterinarian can help by suggesting strategies and techniques that may make brushing easier. Your veterinarian may also recommend dental chews or other products that don't replace toothbrushing but help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
In addition to home dental care, yearly professional cleanings performed by your veterinarian will help your pet avoid tooth and gum problems. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar above and below the gum line. Although brushing reduces plaque and limits tartar formation, it won't prevent it entirely. Plaque and tartar buildup can cause periodontal (gum) disease, which can lead to tooth loss and painful gum infections that can spread to organs.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, most dogs and cats will have some degree of periodontal disease by age three.
Do you have questions about your pet's dental care or need to schedule a dental cleaning? Contact our office to share your concerns or make an appointment.
Sources:
Colorado State University James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital: How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth, 7/12/2023
https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu/vth/animal-health/how-to-brush-your-dogs-teeth
American Veterinary Medical Association: Pet Dental Care
https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/pet-dental-care
PetMD: How to Brush Cat’s Teeth, 6/5/2025
https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/how-to-brush-cats-teeth
American Kennel Club: How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth and Why It’s So Important, 6/6/2024
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/how-brush-dog-teeth/