Have you noticed changes in your pet’s behavior but can’t figure out why? They might be avoiding their food, acting more irritable, or suddenly refusing to play with their favorite chew toys. What many pet owners don’t realize is that dental pain can lead to noticeable changes in a pet’s mood and daily habits.
Since pets can’t tell us when something hurts, their discomfort often shows up in their behavior. At Somerville Animal Hospital, we have seen cases of behavioral changes linked to undiagnosed dental disease. This Pet Dental Health Month, we’ll explore how oral health affects behavior, signs that your pet might be in pain, and what you can do to help.
How Dental Pain Affects Behavior in Cats and Dogs
Dental disease isn’t just a mouth problem—it affects your pet’s entire body. When pets are in pain, they often react in ways that seem unrelated to their teeth, making it easy to overlook oral health as the root cause. Some pet owners mistake behavioral issues for aging when, in reality, their pets are in pain and need dental care.
Here’s how dental pain can affect your pet’s behavior:
- Irritability & Aggression: Even the sweetest pet may snap, growl, or shy away from touch if their mouth hurts.
- Loss of Interest in Toys or Chewing: If your dog stops chewing on their favorite ball or your cat ignores their toy, it could be painful to bite down.
- Changes in Eating Habits: Pets with dental pain may drop food, chew on one side, or avoid crunchy treats.
- Excessive Drooling or Pawing at the Mouth: If your pet suddenly drools more than usual or frequently paws at their face, their teeth or gums might be hurting.
- Hiding or Avoiding Interaction: A normally social pet may start hiding, avoiding attention, or acting withdrawn if they’re in pain.
Signs Your Pet’s Behavior Might Be Linked to Dental Pain
1. Changes in Eating Habits
Food is one of the greatest joys in a pet’s life—so if they suddenly lose interest in meals, eat slowly, or drop food, dental pain could be the culprit. A cat or dog with dental pain may suddenly prefer soft foods, chew only with a specific part of their mouth, or start leaving food behind. If your pet stops eating entirely for 24+ hours, it could signal a serious dental issue or health condition—seek veterinary care immediately.
2. Avoiding Toys or Chewing
Dogs and cats naturally love to chew and play, but if your pet starts ignoring their favorite chew toys, it could be because their mouth is sore. Dogs may stop chewing on sticks or toys. Cats may ignore toy mice, feather wands, or catnip balls. Puppies and kittens may seem restless but refuse to chew on teething toys. If your pet flinches or whimpers when trying to chew, book a veterinary dental exam as soon as possible.
3. Increased Irritability or Aggression
A normally affectionate pet that suddenly becomes grumpy, withdrawn, or aggressive may be dealing with chronic pain. Dogs may growl or pull away when their face is touched. Cats may swat, hiss, or refuse to be picked up. Sometimes, pets are surrendered to shelters for behavioral issues that are actually caused by untreated dental pain. A simple vet visit could solve the problem!
4. Excessive Drooling & Pawing at the Mouth
If your pet suddenly drools more than usual, it could mean they have:
- An infected tooth or abscess.
- Gingivitis (inflamed gums).
- A foreign object stuck in their teeth.
If you notice stringy saliva, blood, or a bad smell coming from your pet’s mouth, schedule a dental exam right away.
What Happens If Dental Pain Is Left Untreated?
If periodontal disease in pets is ignored, it doesn’t just cause discomfort—it can lead to serious health problems, including:
- Tooth Loss: Severe gum disease weakens teeth, leading to painful extractions.
- Infections that Spread: Bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream, affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver.
- Decreased Quality of Life: Pain makes pets less active, less social, and less happy overall.
How to Relieve Your Pet’s Dental Pain
If you suspect that your cat or dog is experiencing dental pain, there are steps you can take. Schedule a veterinary dental exam. Your vet will check for gum disease, infections, and loose teeth. Yearly dental cleanings with X-rays remove tartar buildup on your pet’s teeth and identify hidden issues. Brushing your pet’s teeth daily (or at least 3 times a week) and providing dental-friendly chews can prevent future problems.
Even if your pet isn’t showing obvious signs of pain, routine dental exams and cleanings can catch issues before they become worse.
Your Pet’s Oral Health Matters!
Behavioral changes are often a sign that something is wrong—and dental pain is one of the most common hidden causes. If your pet has been acting differently, a simple dental check-up at Somerville Animal Hospital in Sommerville, TN could be the solution.
Don’t let dental pain go unnoticed! Schedule a dental exam today and give your pet the comfort they deserve.