Best Cat Toothpaste
Our TOP Pick
- FOR DOGS AND CATS: Enzymatic toothpaste specifically formulated using an enzyme system for dogs and cats to reduce plaque, freshen breath, and ensure a clean mouth with Beef flavor pets love
- SAFE FOR DAILY USE: Includes no foaming agents so this toothpaste is safe for pets to swallow
- VET RECOMMENDED: Virbac is the Top Recommended dental brand by Veterinary professionals and Made in the USA
When your cat is suffering from gum disease or tooth decay, they won’t be able to eat as properly, and thus, their health will suffer.
We’ll review 5 of the best cat toothpastes in the market today, as well as answer a few questions regarding basic brushing introduction for cats.
Here is a list of Top 5 Cat Toothpastes in The Market
*We reviewed all the products below – jump to review section here.
Why Should You Brush Your Cat’s Teeth?
Just like humans, cats accumulate plaque and tartar. They can also suffer from gum disease, bad breath, and gingivitis. While these may seem like trivial oral issues, they can lead to more serious conditions that are preventable with simple daily brushing.
Studies show, however, that between 50 to 90% of cats in the United States will develop some type of dental disease by the time they’re 4 years of age. Most cat owners don’t even think about their cat’s oral hygiene, but this shouldn’t be the case.
Vets even recommend professional clearing every year to make sure your cat’s teeth and gums are healthy.
RELATED: Also consider dental treats.
How Many Times Should You Brush Your Cat’s Teeth?
Daily brushing is key to excellent cat oral hygiene but some products aren’t ideal for daily use. Some toothpaste for cats is only recommended to be used 2 to 3 times a week.
Professional cleaning must be done at least once a year.
Carefully read instructions on cat toothbrush products to determine how many times the product can be used on your cat.
Why You Should Never Use Human Toothpaste
Human toothpaste contains fluoride, which is harmful to humans if ingested. If it’s harmful for humans, then it’s harmful for cats, too.
Some human toothpaste also contains xylitol, which is a potentially dangerous ingredient, too. So never use human toothpaste on your cat.
The Top 5 Best Cat Toothpaste in the Market [Review]
To help narrow down your choices, here are 5 of the best cat toothpaste in the market today:
1. Virbac C.E.T. Toothpaste Poultry Flavor
This toothpaste is one of the most popular and bestselling in the market and this Poultry flavor is perfect for finicky cats. It’s difficult enough to even try to brush your cat’s teeth in the first place but with the Poultry taste and smell, you won’t have a problem having your cat open her mouth to this toothpaste.
Its enzymatic system is double that of other regular cat toothpastes so it’s highly effective in removing plaque and tartar.
What we liked
- Dual action enzyme system
- Poultry flavor that’s perfect for fussy cats
- Removes plaque and tartar while also whitens teeth and strengthens gums
What we didn't like
- More abrasive than other toothpastes so if your cat doesn’t really have a plaque or tartar problem, then this toothpaste may not be the best introductory product for your pet kitty
2. Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste Beef Flavor
It’s also great for everyday use, and it helps reduce plaque, freshens breath, and ensures a clean mouth.
What we liked
- Dual enzyme system for efficient plaque and tartar reduction
- Vet-recommended, in fact, it is the top pick for vets in the US
- Safe for daily use
What we didn't like
- It’s more abrasive than regular toothpaste so if you’re introducing a kitten to toothpaste for the first time, this may not be the best
3. Sentry Petrodex Advanced Dental Care Dental Kit, Malt Flavor
It comes with a complete dental kit with an ultra-soft bristle toothbrush and finger toothbrush, so no need to buy other pieces for your cat’s oral hygiene routine.
What we liked
- It is one of the cheapest pet toothpaste in the market
- Comes complete with a toothbrush and finger toothbrush
What we didn't like
- Its enzymatic system produces low dosage of hydrogen peroxide, which can be too harsh for the gums if used daily
4. Oxyfresh Best Solution Dental Kit
The fast-acting dental gel contains a soothing blend of aloe vera and oxygene, which is perfect for both oral hygiene and as a first-aid gel for gum inflammation or discomfort. The gel can be applied directly to your cat’s teeth and gums, offering protection against periodontal disease and keeps the cat’s breath fresh.
It contains no artificial colors, no alcohol, scent-free, and cruelty-free.
It’s so easy to use, too, as the water additive can be added straight to your cat’s water bowl and they won’t even know it. The water additive helps to prevent gingivitis.
What we liked
- Contains no harsh ingredients
- Comes in a complete dental kit
What we didn't like
- Unlike enzymatic toothpaste that you can easily apply on your cat’s teeth and an antibacterial system takes into effect, this toothpaste needs to be literally brushed on your cat’s teeth, which may be difficult if your cat is not used to having her teeth brushed
5. Arm and Hammer Fresh Breath Dental Kit for Cats
It’s 100% safe to use and gentle on your cat’s teeth and gums, and can be used 2 to 3 times a week for best results.
The dental kit includes everything you need to help keep your cat healthy and happy. As an enzymatic toothpaste, there’s no need to thoroughly brush your cat’s teeth as it instantly has an antibacterial effect that removes bacteria.
What we liked
- Comes in a complete dental kit
- Comes in a tuna flavor that cats love
- Enzymatic system features antibacterial action
What we didn't like
- Contains baking soda that may be dangerous for cats when swallowed
Tips for Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth
If brushing your cat’s teeth seems like an impossible task, don’t fret. All it takes for you and your feline friend to have a pleasant brushing experience is some practice and getting used to it.
While kittens are much more welcoming to new experiences, an adult cat may require some persistence to cooperate.
Here are 3 tips for brushing your cat’s teeth:
1. Start in a Comfortable Place
Make sure your cat is comfortable and feels safe. You can place your kitty on your lap, cuddle her, and make sure she’s relaxed. Cats will feel comfortable in a familiar place so your bedroom or living area will do fine.
2. Start Slowly
Slowly lift your cat’s cheeks to reveal her teeth. This requires planning and patience. Make sure your cat is not agitated as this could lead to struggling and scratches. Once your cat is comfortable showing her teeth, gently brush her teeth and gums with a soft bristle brush or a finger toothbrush.
3. Use a Flavored Toothpaste
You can use a flavored toothpaste resembling the smell of food that they like such as tuna, seafood, beef, or chicken. Poultry-flavored toothpaste is a hit with cats but it all boils down to preference. They won’t be able to distinguish the scent from normal cat foods so they’ll most likely open their mouth to the scent of the toothpaste.
Brushing your cat’s teeth can be a daunting task at first but with patience and persistence, as well as daily practice, your cat’s oral hygiene routine can be smooth sailing.
The Bottom Line
Though your cat’s oral health may be the last thing on your mind, it’s crucial that you practice daily oral hygiene so your cat’s gums and teeth are healthy and strong.
There are so many products in the market today that it can’t be difficult to choose which ones are the best for your cat. When you do choose a toothpaste, always remember enzymatic toothpaste is the most convenient and cost-effective in removing plaque and tartar, while dental kits offer convenience in one pack.
And though your cat may panic or make a fuss now, you’d have to have the patience and diligence to ensure your cat practices oral hygiene so she is happy and healthy with great teeth and gums.