In some cases, it may be because of stomatitis or ulcers in the mouth. Abnormally bad breath may indicate a possible infection. For example, where breath smells of urine, it indicates that the kidneys are not functioning well. A blood test will tell us more,"says Pune-based veterinarian Dr Vinay Gorhe. So keep your veterinarian posted. Here's how to keep your pet's mouth in top shape. Take A Good Look Check your pet's teeth weekly. They should be white, shiny, sharp and pointy. Yellow or brown teeth may indicate plaque or tartar build-up. Purple on a tooth may be pulpitis, an inflammation of the tooth's centre caused by a blow to the mouth or chewing too hard. Gums should be light pink and smooth along the tooth edge. If they're red, swollen or bleeding, it may indicate gingivitis or an early stage of periodontal disease. Your Tooth Tool Kit Special toothbrushes for pets or a children's soft-bristle one will do. You can wrap a piece of gauze around your finger to brush your cat's teeth. l Ideally, start brushing your dog/cat's teeth when it's still a pup/kitten. Look for special toothpastes in pet shops. l Give them food they can tear into to reduce tartar build-up. Discourage feeding only soft foods, unless they are unable to eat otherwise. l Give dental chewies like those with chlorophyll that remove odour or raw hide bones to keep their teeth clean. Brushing Basics Start slowly, whether you are introducing a puppy or an older dog to a tooth-cleaning. Follow the sequence of steps below, working up to a full brushing in 2 weeks. l Have your pet lick the toothpaste off the brush. l Work the brush into her mouth and touch just the front teeth (the incisors and canines). l As she becomes accustomed to the toothbrush touching her teeth and gums, move it farther into her mouth. l Point bristles at the gums or angle them underneath the gums so that a third of the toothbrush massages the gum line. Work around your pet's mouth, brushing the outside surface of each tooth. To reach the back teeth, just slide the brush between the teeth and cheek and your cat or dog will produce a brushing action as she chews.