Taking care of your cat’s teeth is about more than just keeping their smile bright—it’s crucial for their overall health. In this article, we’ll answer the question, ‘Do cat dental treats work?’, what the best form of dental care looks like, and how prevention can make a big difference for both you and your feline friend.
How cat dental treats work
Dental treats are a convenient and effective way to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup on your cat’s teeth. They work by using their rough texture to clean your cat’s teeth as they chew. Research shows that dental chews can significantly decrease the amount of plaque and calculus on cats’ teeth, as well as reduce gingivitis, when used regularly alongside a dry diet.
So yes, cat dental treats do work…however! They’re not a complete replacement for professional dental care. Regular vet visits and cleanings are still necessary to ensure your cat’s teeth and gums stay healthy. According to current scientific research, you can think of dental treats as a helpful tool that works best when combined with other forms of care.
The power of prevention
When it comes to dental health, prevention is key. Starting a dental care routine early in your cat’s life can help prevent periodontal disease, the most common dental issue in cats.
It’s a well-known statistic that 70% of cats are affected by some form of dental disease by the time they reach three years of age. Not only does this impact their overall health & well-being, it also can become costly for you as the cat owner.
Ideally, you’d brush your cat’s teeth regularly with pet-safe toothpaste, which is considered the gold standard for dental care. But let’s be honest—not every cat is going to sit still for tooth brushing.
How do Greenies cat dental treats rate?
Again, while they can’t replace tooth brushing, studies show that products like Feline Greenies do help maintain oral hygiene. They’re especially useful for keeping plaque and tartar at bay between vet visits.
Best Vet-recommended dental chews for cats
While brushing your cat’s teeth is ideal, sometimes it’s not always practical. That’s where vet-recommended dental chews come in. These chews not only help reduce plaque and tartar but also keep your cat entertained.
Here are a few top picks that veterinarians often recommend:
1. Greenies feline catnip flavour dental treats
Greenies Feline Catnip Flavour dental treats are a popular choice among cat owners and vets alike. These treats are specifically designed with a crunchy texture that helps scrape away plaque and tartar as your cat chews. The catnip flavour is a big hit with most cats, making it easier to integrate these treats into their daily routine.
Greenies are also low in calories, so you can give them to your cat regularly without worrying about their weight. Plus, they’re packed with essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health. While they shouldn’t replace regular tooth brushing, Greenies are a convenient and effective way to support your cat’s dental hygiene between professional cleanings.
2. Vetnex plaque control dental chews
For a more natural option, consider Vetnex Plaque Control Dental Chews. These chews are made from beef liver and contain natural ingredients that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. They’re also free from artificial flavours, colours, and preservatives, making them a great choice for health-conscious pet owners.
Vetnex chews are designed to be highly palatable, so even the pickiest cats are likely to enjoy them. The chewy texture encourages longer chewing, which helps clean teeth more effectively. Because these chews are also suitable for dogs, they’re a versatile option if you have multiple pets at home. Regular use of Vetnex chews can help maintain your cat’s dental health and keep their breath fresh.
3. Greenies feline salmon flavour dental treats
Another excellent option from the Greenies line is the Greenies Feline Salmon Flavour dental treats. Like the catnip flavour, these treats are designed with a unique texture that helps clean teeth and reduce plaque and tartar as your cat chews. The salmon flavour is a favourite among many cats, making it easy to include these treats as part of their daily dental care routine.
Other ways to keep your cat’s teeth clean
In addition to dental treats, there are several other products and methods that can help keep your cat’s teeth clean and healthy:
Brushing your cat’s teeth with pet-safe toothpaste is one of the best ways to prevent dental disease. It might take some time to get your cat used to it, but the effort is worth it. Check out this helpful article that explains how to clean your cat’s teeth.
- Dental powders and gels
These can be added to your cat’s food or applied directly to their teeth to help reduce plaque.
These are easy to use—just add them to your cat’s water to help prevent bacterial growth in their mouth.
Some cat foods are designed to reduce plaque and tartar as your cat eats. These diets can be a great addition to your cat’s dental care routine.
When choosing products, it’s important to stick with those that are vet-recommended. You can check out resources like the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for products that have been proven to work.
Caring for your cat’s teeth doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating dental treats, trying out other forms of dental care, and staying on top of regular vet visits, you can help keep your cat’s mouth healthy and prevent painful dental problems.
Get answers to 11 FAQs about cat teeth cleaning, and find out more about cat health advice, check out the other articles from our blog!