5 min read · 9 September 2025
Dental Care for Cats and Dogs in Dubai: Why It Matters
Dental disease is the most common health problem in adult cats and dogs — and most owners don't realise there's a problem until it's advanced. Here's what Dubai pet owners need to know.
Why Dental Health Is Critical for Pets
By age 3, over 70% of cats and dogs show signs of periodontal disease. Unlike in humans, pets cannot tell us when their teeth hurt — many animals continue eating normally despite significant dental pain, which means problems are often missed until they're severe.
Untreated dental disease doesn't just cause mouth pain. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and damage the kidneys, heart, and liver over time. Good dental care genuinely extends the quality and length of your pet's life.
Signs of Dental Problems in Cats and Dogs
Watch for these signs that your pet may have a dental problem:
• Bad breath (more than usual 'pet breath')
• Yellow or brown tartar build-up on teeth
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Pawing at the mouth or reluctance to be touched around the face
• Dropping food, chewing on one side, or sudden food aversion
• Excessive drooling
If you notice any of these signs, book a dental check with your vet. Many dental problems are manageable when caught early.
What Does a Professional Dental Cleaning Involve?
Professional dental cleaning (scale and polish) for pets is performed under general anaesthetic. This is necessary because a full oral examination — probing for pockets, checking roots, taking dental X-rays — cannot be done safely or thoroughly in a conscious animal.
At Mike's Vet, a dental procedure includes a pre-anaesthetic health assessment and blood panel, ultrasonic scaling to remove tartar above and below the gumline, polishing of all tooth surfaces, a full oral examination including dental X-rays where indicated, and extraction of any teeth that are beyond saving.
Your pet goes home the same day, usually bright and comfortable. Most owners are amazed at the transformation — whiter teeth, fresher breath, and a happier animal.
Keeping Your Pet's Teeth Healthy at Home
The gold standard for home dental care is daily tooth brushing using a pet-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste, which is toxic to pets). Even 30 seconds of brushing per day dramatically reduces tartar build-up.
If brushing isn't possible, dental chews, water additives, and prescription dental diets can help maintain dental health between professional cleans. Ask our team which products are appropriate for your pet.
Book an appointment at Mike's Vet
Open 7 days · 9 AM – 9:30 PM · Hessa Street, Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get my dog or cat's teeth cleaned in Dubai?
Most pets benefit from an annual professional dental check and cleaning as needed. Small breeds and cats are often more prone to rapid tartar build-up and may need more frequent cleanings.
Is dental cleaning safe for pets?
Yes. Modern anaesthetic protocols make dental procedures very safe. At Mike's Vet, we run pre-anaesthetic blood tests and monitor your pet throughout. The risks of untreated dental disease far outweigh the risks of a routine cleaning.
Does my pet need to be anaesthetised for a dental cleaning?
Yes. Safe and thorough dental cleaning — including below the gumline where disease develops — requires general anaesthetic. So-called 'anaesthetic-free dentals' only clean visible surfaces and are not endorsed by veterinary dental associations.
Can I get my pet's teeth cleaned at Mike's Vet in Dubai?
Yes. Mike's Vet offers professional dental cleaning for cats and dogs on Hessa Street, Dubai. Book a dental assessment online or call +971 4 283 7744.