The Importance of Cat Dental Health
As a cat owner, you know how important it is to ensure your feline friend stays healthy in all aspects, including oral health. Unfortunately, dental disease in cats is a common problem that can lead to a whole host of health issues if left untreated.
In this article, we’ll discuss the prevalence of dental disease in cats, and the best ways to maintain your cat’s oral hygiene habits.
Prevalence of Dental Disease in Cats
Dental disease in cats is an unfortunately common problem. It’s estimated that up to 70% of cats over three years of age suffer from dental issues.
The most common dental problems in cats include periodontal disease, gingivitis, tooth resorption, and cavities. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that attacks the gums and bone that support your cat’s teeth.
If left untreated, it can lead to painful inflammation and tooth loss. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that can cause your cat’s gums to become red, swollen, and painful.
Tooth resorption is a condition where the tooth structure dissolves selectively, leaving the root exposed, leading to significant discomfort. Lastly, cavities are rare in cats, but when they are developed, it can cause discomfort and predispose your cat to further dental disease.
Maintaining Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits
Maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine is the best way to prevent dental disease in cats. Ideally, you should aim to brush your cat’s teeth daily, but if that’s not possible, try to brush them a few times a week.
The use of special cat-friendly toothpaste is key – never use human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients that can be harmful to cats. When it comes to brushing your cat’s teeth, start slowly by getting your cat used to the toothbrush and toothpaste.
Introduce the brush and toothpaste to your cat slowly. Place a small amount of toothpaste on your finger and let your cat sniff it so they become familiar with the taste and smell.
Afterward, gently scruff your cat and start brushing gently. When your cat becomes comfortable, gradually build up the duration of brushing time.
Aside from regular brushing, you can also help maintain your cat’s oral hygiene by providing dental toys and treats. Dental chews and kibbles are specially formulated to reduce tartar buildup and freshen your cat’s breath.
Dental toys such as chew toys or rope toys can help remove plaque and tartar from your cat’s teeth, keeping them clean and healthy.
Cat Dental Treats
Cat dental treats come in various forms, such as kibble and chews, and serve to support your cat’s oral hygiene routine. Let’s explore some common types of cat dental treats and their benefits.
Forms of
Cat Dental Treats
Dental Kibble: Dental kibble is specially formulated to clean your cat’s teeth and massage their gums. These kibbles are designed to be larger and firmer than regular cat food and, as a result, require more chewing, which helps to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Cat Dental Chews: Dental chews are designed to be delicious, but they have teeth-cleaning properties. Their abrasive texture helps to scrape away plaque and tartar while massaging the gums.
Dental chews come in various shapes and flavors, so you’re sure to find something your cat loves. Benefits of
Cat Dental Treats
Tartar Reduction: Tartar buildup is the result of plaque hardening on your cat’s teeth.
Dental treats contain abrasive elements that help scrub away plaque before it hardens into tartar. Plaque Removal: Dental treats are an easy way to help remove plaque from your cat’s teeth.
The treats work by providing a healthy abrasion that can help loosen plaque particles from your cat’s teeth. Fresh Breath: Cat dental treats can give your cat’s breath a boost.
Their teeth-cleaning properties work to freshen your cat’s breath by eliminating bacteria that lead to bad breath. Nutritional Benefits: Many dental treats come with added nutritional benefits for your cat.
Look for treats with added vitamins and minerals to help support their overall health.
Conclusion
Maintaining your cat’s dental health is crucial for their overall health and wellbeing. Regular brushing, combined with the use of dental toys and treats, can go a long way in preventing and controlling dental disease in cats.
So, make sure you provide your cat with oral hygiene support they need and deserve!
Top-Ranked
Cat Dental Treats
We all want the best for our furry friends, and that includes their dental health. With so many cat dental treats available on the market, it can be tough to know which ones are worth your money.
To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the top-ranked cat dental treats. 1.
Greenies Feline Dental Treats
Greenies Feline Dental Treats are the best overall cat dental treats, and for good reason. They’re the number one veterinarian-recommended dental treat for cats and have been tested and approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
Their unique texture helps to scrape away plaque and tartar while freshening your cat’s breath with a delicious flavor they’ll love. Greenies Feline Dental Treats come in a variety of sizes to accommodate cats of all ages and breeds.
The small size is perfect for cats weighing five pounds or less, while the large size is ideal for cats over ten pounds. 2.
Minties Dental Treats
Minties Dental Treats are the perfect solution for cats with bad breath. Their natural ingredients, including peppermint, parsley, and dill, work to freshen your cat’s breath while supporting their overall oral health.
These treats are also free from wheat, soy, and artificial flavors and colors, making them a healthy option for your cat. Minties Dental Treats come in two sizes – mini and small/medium – and are appropriate for cats weighing up to 20 pounds.
They’re also made in the USA and are VOHC-approved. 3.
Team Treatz Hello Kitty Tartar Control Cat Treats
Team Treatz Hello Kitty Tartar Control Cat Treats are the best cat dental treats for plaque buildup. Their patented formula is clinically proven to reduce tartar buildup by up to 87%, making them an effective tool in your cat’s oral hygiene routine.
These dental treats are made with high-quality ingredients and come in a fun Hello Kitty shape that your cat will love. The small size is perfect for cats weighing up to ten pounds, while the large size is suitable for cats weighing over ten pounds.
4. Hartz Dentist’s Best Heart-Shaped Cat Treats
Hartz Dentist’s Best Heart-Shaped Cat Treats are the most affordable cat dental treats on our list.
These treats feature DentaShield technology, which works to reduce tartar buildup and freshen your cat’s breath. They come in a heart shape that’s perfect for rewarding your cat for good behavior.
These dental treats come in a small size that’s perfect for cats weighing up to ten pounds. They also have the VOHC seal of approval, so you can trust they’re effective in preventing plaque and tartar buildup.
5. Emerald Pet Feline Dental Treats with Ocean Fish
Emerald Pet Feline Dental Treats with Ocean Fish are the best grain-free cat dental treats available.
They’re made with limited ingredients, including real ocean fish, and are free from grains and gluten. These treats are perfect for cats with food sensitivities or allergies.
Emerald Pet Feline Dental Treats come in a fish shape that’s fun and appealing to cats. They’re also VOHC-approved, so you know they’re effective in preventing plaque and tartar buildup.
6. Potaroma Natural Silvervine Sticks
Potaroma Natural Silvervine Sticks are the best cat dental sticks on the market.
These calorie-free treats are made with natural silvervine, which is a plant that’s often used in traditional medicine for its calming properties. They work to clean your cat’s teeth while providing a natural stress relief.
These dental sticks are appropriate for cats of all ages and come in a convenient stick shape that’s easy for your cat to hold and chew. They’re also free from artificial flavors and colors.
Cat Dental Treats Buying Guide
When shopping for cat dental treats, there are a few things to consider to ensure you choose the best option for your cat’s needs.
Size and Feeding Directions
It’s important to select dental treats that are appropriate for your cat’s size. Treats that are too large can be a choking hazard, while those that are too small won’t be effective in cleaning your cat’s teeth.
Also, consider feeding directions when selecting dental treats. Some treats may need to be fed in moderation, while others may be given freely.
Taste and Flavor
Your cat won’t want to eat dental treats if they don’t like the taste or texture. Consider your cat’s preferences when selecting dental treats and choose a flavor and texture they enjoy.
Ingredients
Always look for dental treats made with high-quality ingredients. Natural ingredients are superior and a nutritional boost is always welcomed.
Also, consider treats that provide a natural way of cleaning your cats teeth with dental chews.
Seal of Approval
The VOHC seal of approval indicates that a product has been tested and approved by veterinary dental experts. Look for products that carry this seal to ensure you’re selecting an effective tool in your cat’s oral hygiene routine.
Reviews
Lastly, always consult customer reviews before purchasing cat dental treats.
Reviews from experienced cat owners can help you make an informed decision and ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
In conclusion, by choosing the best cat dental treats for your feline friend, you’re doing your part to support their oral health. Use our list of top-ranked cat dental treats and buying guide to help guide your selection process and make a sound decision.
Cat Dental Treat Considerations
Cat dental treats are an excellent tool in your cat’s oral health routine. However, it’s important to consider a few factors before choosing a dental treat to ensure it’s an effective and safe option for your cat.
1. Avoiding Unnecessary
Ingredients
When shopping for cat dental treats, always read the label carefully to ensure you’re choosing treats made with high-quality ingredients.
Some dental treats may contain sugar or artificial sweeteners that can be harmful to your cat’s health. Additionally, treats made with wheat, rice, and corn gluten should be avoided as these ingredients can be difficult for cats to digest and can contribute to various health issues.
2. Appropriate Size and Consistency
The size and consistency of dental treats are essential considerations.
Treats that are too large or too hard can pose a choking hazard or cause tooth fractures, while treats that are too small may not provide the necessary cleaning action. It’s important to select the size and consistency of dental treats appropriate for your cat’s age, size, and dental health needs.
3. Testing Different Treats
Many cats are finicky eaters and may not take to new dental treats initially.
Monitoring your cat’s consumption is important if you’re introducing a new food item, and it’s essential to introduce new treats slowly to avoid upsetting your cat’s digestive system. Consider testing different types of dental treats to find the one that your cat loves the most.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, selecting the best cat dental treats is much more than just picking up any bag of treats off the shelf. Taking the time to consider unnecessary ingredients, proper size and consistency, as well as feasibility with your cat’s dietary needs is the best way to ensure your cat receives the right dental care.
Testing different types of dental treats and monitoring your cat’s consumption can help you find the perfect treat to keep your cat’s teeth and gums healthy. With a little research and consideration, you can feel confident in the dental treats you’re choosing for your feline friend.
In summary, cat dental health is a critical aspect of feline healthcare, and incorporating cat dental treats into your cat’s oral hygiene routine is a practical solution. When considering different types of cat dental treats, it’s essential to avoid unnecessary ingredients, select appropriate size and consistency, and test different treats to see which ones your cat prefers.
By following these considerations, you can positively contribute to your cat’s optimal oral health. Remember, dental health and hygiene are key aspects of cat ownership, and investing in your cat’s dental health will ensure they live a long and healthy life.