10 Apr Safe Dental Treats for Pets
As pet parents, we all want our companions to be happy, healthy, and full of energy. One crucial aspect of their well-being that often goes overlooked is dental health. Just like humans, pets need proper oral care to prevent plaque buildup, bad breath, and potential gum disease. Fortunately, there are plenty of safe and effective dental treats available to help maintain your pet’s oral hygiene when combined with regular dental care by your veterinarian.
Why Dental Health Matters for Pets
Poor dental hygiene in pets can lead to serious health problems beyond bad breath. Plaque and tartar buildup can cause periodontal disease, which in turn may lead to infections that affect other organs, such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. Regularly providing your pet with dental treats can help reduce these risks while also making oral care a more enjoyable experience.
Features of Safe Dental Treats for Pets
When choosing dental treats for your pet, consider the following factors to ensure they are both effective and safe:
- Size and Texture – The treat should be appropriately sized for your pet’s breed and chewing ability. Treats that are too small can pose a choking hazard, while those that are too hard may damage teeth. These treats should not be overly hard. You should be able to break dental treats easily. Treats that are too hard may potentially fracture teeth.
- Natural Ingredients – Opt for treats made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that may be harmful to your pet.
- VOHC Approval – Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), which ensures the treats meet dental health standards.
- Digestibility – Treats should be easy to digest and not cause stomach upset.
- Low in Calories – Some dental treats are high in calories, which can contribute to weight gain. Choose options that are both effective and nutritionally balanced.
Recommended Safe Dental Treats for Pets
Here are some top-rated dental treats that are both safe and effective for your pets.
For Dogs
- Greenies Dental Treats – Soft enough to clean teeth without damaging them and VOHC-approved.
- Whimzees Natural Dental Chews – Made with natural ingredients and designed to reduce plaque and tartar.
- Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews – Contain enzymes that help break down plaque while being gentle on the stomach.
- Oravet Dental Chews for Dogs – These treats have an agent (delmopinol) that chelates minerals on the surface of a tooth and prevents plaque from mineralizing into calculus
For Cats
- Greenies Feline Dental Treats – Specially designed with a crunchy texture to help clean cats’ teeth.
- Purina DentaLife Cat Treats – Porous texture helps reduce tartar buildup while being palatable.
Additional Tips for Pet Dental Care
While dental treats are an excellent way to support oral hygiene, they should not replace regular dental care routines. Here are a few additional tips:
- Brush Their Teeth – Use pet-specific toothpaste and a soft brush to clean their teeth a few times a week. This can be a challenge with many pets, especially cats. Start slow and get them gradually use to having a toothbrush in their mouths. They should also slowly get accustomed to the taste and texture of a veterinary-approved toothpaste. This is easily the most effective and important means of caring for your pets oral health. No dental treat or toy has been shown to be as effective as tooth brushing.
- Provide Dental Toys – Chew toys can help remove plaque while keeping pets entertained.
- Schedule Regular Vet Checkups – Routine dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential for long-term dental health. We must stress that dental treats are an adjunctive treatment for dental care in pets. They never remove the need for brushing and regular dental cleanings under anesthesia by your veterinarian.
Conclusion
Taking care of your pet’s teeth is vital for their overall health and longevity. By choosing safe and effective dental treats, incorporating a good oral hygiene routine, and scheduling regular vet visits, you can help ensure your pet has a happy and healthy smile for years to come.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (04/10/2025) Photo by Peter Neumann on Unsplash
