You’ve probably noticed no shortage of dental chews that claim to improve the oral health of your dog or cat, but do these dental chews actually work? Can they replace brushing? And what kind of chew should I buy for my pet?

Just like humans, pets require daily dental care, without which oral decay and disease can occur. When pets experience dental disease, they often have many of the same symptoms people do, like bad breath, a change in chewing or eating habits, and pain. Naturally, this causes them discomfort, and in some cases, even depression. 

Worse still, poor oral health has been linked to a number of serious health problems in pets, including heart disease, liver abscesses, infection, and kidney damage. Learn more about dental disease in pets.

It is important to note before we dive into discussing dental chews for pets, these products should only be used as a supplement to regular pet dental care like tooth brushing and annual full dental cleanings at your vet’s office.

There are all kinds of chews in the market for dogs and cats, each with their own exciting claims. Typically, the shape and content of the chews is what differentiates dental chews from typical dog and cat treats. Although some can be a beneficial supplement to your pet’s dental care routine not all are as great as they claim to be.  

Dental chews may have special ridges or lumps that are designed to prevent tarter buildup and cause pets to use a unique chewing action. Dental chews also typically contain additives, like enzymes, that are meant to help breakdown bacteria in the mouth.  

At Thrive Pet Healthcare we like products that use the CET brand. The cat chews have enzymes in it that help prevent plaque from turning into tartar. The CET HEXA chews are coated with chlorhexidine, the gold standard for killing bacteria in our mouths.

Dogs that chew actively have less plaque build-up. And some types of dog dental treats and diets can reduce plaque by nearly 70%. How do they do this? Simply the mechanical action of chewing can make a difference!  

In one study, increasing the diameter of kibble by 50% led to a 42% reduction in tartar. In the same study, coating the products with a substance called polyphosphate further reduced tartar by 55%. 

While every dog’s dental health is different, there is an easy way to find vet recommended dog dental chews, sticks, and treats:

The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) is an organization that evaluates pet products to see if they meet standards for reducing plaque or tartar. Approved foods, treats, and chews must reduce plaque or tartar by at least 10% to achieve the VOHC seal of approval. If a chemical anti-plaque agent is used, it needs to reduce plaque or tartar by at least 20%. To see which products have received the VOHC seal of approval, visit their website.

While well-designed dental chews can keep plaque and tartar to a minimum, they shouldn’t be considered a substitute for regular dental appointments. Dogs usually require a dental cleaning every 6 months to a year, whereas cats should get a cleaning about once a year. 

Since our pets all vary significantly based on size and taste preference, we recommend searching through the VOHC accepted product list to select a dental chew that you think will suit your unique cat or dog.  

Try a few different products for the list to see which one your pet most enjoys – the more they chew on it, the more they will reap the dental benefits. 

Just remember, no matter how great the claims may be, dental chews are not a substitute for regular teeth brushing, regular check-ups with your pet care team, and annual veterinary cleanings!