Reviewed by Dr. Hannah Hart, DVM
Cat dental treats are made specifically to help your feline friend with their oral health. These treats are usually textured in a way that helps scrape plaque off your cats’ teeth while they chew. Many cat dental treats also contain ingredients that can reduce bacteria in the mouth and promote fresh breath. Dental treats can be used to support gum health, keep breath fresh, and reduce plaque buildup. Ingredients usually include cornstarch or rice powder to scrape off plaque, and enzymes to break down buildup on teeth. Dental treats for cats might contain dental-specific ingredients like zinc salts to help reduce tartar formation, and calcium for supporting dental health. A few types of cat dental treats include:
When buying cat dental treats, first, figure out your pet’s specific oral health needs, their flavor preferences, and which form is easiest to give them. For example, if your cat has lots of plaque buildup, an abrasive kibble may be most helpful to knock it loose. Different treats cater to specific dental issues, so make sure to talk with your vet to find the best option. Use Chewy’s Autoship to have your cat’s dental treats conveniently delivered to your door on your schedule.
Yes, you can give your cat a dental treat every day, as long as it is designed for daily use. Always check the packaging to determine the frequency and dosage. Also, pay attention to the number of calories in each cat dental treat, because treats should never make up more than 10% of your cat’s daily calories.
Yes, cat dental treats can work, but their effectiveness depends on dosage, ingredients, and your cat’s specific oral health needs. Consult with your vet on what’s best for your pet. If your cat has plaque buildup, a non-abrasive cat treat may not remove plaque effectively. If you just want to improve your cat’s breath, make sure to go with a treat made with parsley or chlorophyll (ingredients that help neutralize bad odor).
Yes, many vets recommend dental treats for cats as part of a well-rounded oral hygiene plan. A vet may recommend cat dental treats as a supplement to brushing or as a preventive measure. A vet will usually keep in mind your cat’s overall health profile, their age and size, and the ingredients needed to help with their specific needs.
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