By Sam Mazzota
King Syndicate
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My vet said at their last checkup that both my dog “Petey” and cat “Storm” need their teeth brushed every day. I’ve never heard of this. How do I brush their teeth? Do I just use a regular toothbrush? — Jerry in Yellow Springs, Ohio
DEAR JERRY: Brushing your pets’ teeth is really a thing. Not just dogs and cats, but any mammalian pet can suffer from plaque, tartar, and tooth decay, just like us. And poor teeth results in poor health — difficulty eating, which makes it tough to get enough nutrients, and potentially more serious diseases.
Daily brushing is recommended for both dogs and cats, but if you’re able to get it done three or four times per week, that’s way better than nothing at all. Often, you have to do it daily because your pet may not sit still long enough to clean all of their teeth at once.
Here’s how to brush both your pets’ teeth with minimal trauma:
— Never use human toothpaste: It may contain xylitol, which is poisonous to pets. Instead, buy a toothpaste for dogs (peanut butter flavor is popular) and one for cats.
— Special pet toothbrushes that fit over your finger are the easiest to use.
— Introduce brushing gradually. Give your pet a little toothpaste on the tip of your finger. Then
use your finger to gently swipe their teeth, starting at the gums and swiping downward.
— Use gauze wrapped around your finger at first, and transition to the pet toothbrush as they get more comfortable.
— If your pet won’t hold still long enough to do all their teeth, that’s OK. Do another section of teeth the next day.
Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.
