Dental Diets and Dental Treats for Cats: What Works and What Does Not

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Many owners believe that crunchy kibble keeps their cat's teeth clean. It is a nice idea, but the evidence says otherwise. Most kibble breaks apart as soon as the tooth touches it, and does little to scrape the teeth. Still, some diets and treats are designed to help, and understanding them can add to your cat's dental care.

Why dental care matters

Plaque forms within hours, and hardens into tartar. Bacteria then inflame the gums, and can cause painful periodontal disease, tooth loss and infection. Dental disease affects most cats by middle age. See cat dental disease, gingivitis and stomatitis in cats and tooth resorption in cats.

What is the VOHC seal?

The Veterinary Oral Health Council evaluates products according to a set protocol, in trials with cats, and awards a seal to those that reduce plaque or tartar by a set amount. The seal does not mean the product is nutritionally best, but it does show that the dental claim is supported by data. Look for the VOHC seal on packaging, or check the council's website.

Dental diets

These are special kibble formulas, often prescription or sold through vets and pet stores. Features include:

• Larger kibble and fibrous texture. The tooth sinks into the piece, rather than shattering, which gives a scrubbing effect.
• Special coatings, such as polyphosphates, that bind calcium in saliva and reduce tartar formation.

They are meant to be the main diet, or a big part. Check that they are complete and balanced. Some dental diets are also designed for urinary or weight needs. Ask your vet whether a dental diet suits your cat. See cat food aafco statement explained.

Dental treats

Treats with the VOHC seal can reduce plaque or tartar when given regularly, usually daily. They are tough or chewy, and may have coatings. Count the calories, since treats can add up. See healthy cat treats and how much should I feed my cat.

Water additives and gels

Some water additives claim to reduce plaque. A few have been tested and carry the VOHC seal. Others are not proven. Make sure your cat still drinks, and never use products not made for cats. If your cat avoids the water, stop.

Wipes, gels and sprays

Dental wipes and enzymatic gels can help for cats that will not tolerate a toothbrush. They give less benefit than brushing, but are better than nothing. Choose products made for cats, since human toothpaste is toxic to them because of fluoride and xylitol. See how to brush a cat's teeth.

What to avoid

• Bones, antlers, hooves and hard chews. They can fracture teeth. See can cats eat bones.
• Human toothpaste and mouthwash.
• Sugary treats.
• Unproven products.
• Relying on any product alone.

A realistic plan

1. Brush daily if possible.
2. Offer a VOHC-approved diet or treat, if your vet agrees.
3. Check the mouth regularly for red gums, bad breath, drooling or broken teeth.
4. Schedule exams, and cleanings when recommended. See cat dental cleaning: what to expect.
5. Act on pain signs promptly.

Kittens

Start dental habits early. See kitten teething.

Cats with disease

Cats with existing dental disease, such as stomatitis, may not tolerate hard foods, and need veterinary care first.

Making dental care a habit

Pick a regular time each day, such as after the evening meal, for tooth care. Offer a tiny taste of something your cat loves, and begin by touching the lips only. Over several weeks, build up to brushing a few teeth at a time. Pair the routine with a dental treat or play session as a reward. Keep a note of what you use, and bring it to the yearly exam, where your vet can check the teeth and tell you whether the plan is working.

Signs the plan needs adjusting

Bad breath that does not improve, brown tartar along the gumline, red or bleeding gums, dropping food, chewing on one side, pawing at the mouth or reluctance to eat hard food are all signs that home care is not enough. Book a veterinary dental exam, because only X-rays and a cleaning under anesthesia can show disease below the gumline. Early treatment is cheaper and kinder than waiting until a tooth is painful or infected.

Cost and expectations

Dental diets and treats usually cost more than ordinary food, so ask your vet whether the benefit is worth it for your cat. They work best in cats with mild plaque and healthy gums, started early, and used daily. They will not reverse established tartar or periodontal disease, which needs professional cleaning. Treat them as one tool among several, and keep realistic expectations.

When to see a vet

See a vet if your cat has bad breath, red gums or trouble eating. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.