Best Cat Toothpaste for Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Best Cat Toothpastes
Offered together with a small toothbrush and a finger cot, Arm & Hammer toothpaste helps to reduce bacteria buildup, tartar, and calculus while making cat’s teeth whiter and brighter. Using this product is pretty simple: squeeze a small bean of toothpaste on your finger and let your feline friend lick it. Then rub the finger in a cot along with teeth and gums. According to the manufacturer, the procedure should be repeated 2-3 times a week.
Being infused with baking soda, the toothpaste is safe for cats and kittens and efficient at the same time. Tuna flavor makes it highly appealing for felines. Sorbitol and sodium chloride gently remove bacteria and residues of food, while glycerin and cellulose make the formula milder. To enhance the positive effect, use a water additive and chewable treats offered by the manufacturer.
Pros:
- Non-expensive;
- Should be used 2-3 times a week;
- The kit allows you to choose the best brushing method for your cat.
Cons:
- Not all pets like a tuna flavored cat toothpaste;
- The finger brush is too bulky for a kitten’s mouth.
- Weight: 2.5 oz / 67.5 g
Containing a toothbrush and all-natural paste, the Kissable Dental Kit is highly recommended if your cat is prone to swallowing what’s inside its mouth. The formula prevents tartar building, kills bacteria, and removes the residues of food and plaque. A 2.5-ounce tube lasts pretty long: it’s enough for several months of proper hygiene.
Since it’s an all-natural product, you can clean the cat’s teeth every day. If the brush is too big, check out finger brushes of Kissable brand. One thing that concerns many potential buyers is vanilla flavor: it might repel some cats. This is why many customers wish the company offered more flavor options.
Pros:
- The all-natural formula allows using the paste daily;
- A convenient toothbrush is included;
- The product lasts long.
Cons:
- Some cats hate vanilla flavor and its smell;
- Expensive;
- The formula foams;
- The brush isn’t equally convenient for all cats.
- Size: 2.5 oz / 74 ml
Based on hydrogen peroxide-producing enzymes, the malt flavored cat toothpaste from Petrodex is highly efficient against tartar and plaque. One 2.5-ounce tube lasts several months. The paste does not foam and does not require rinsing. The kit comes with both a finger brush (recommended for kittens) and a conventional bent toothbrush. Both remove bacteria and plaque while massaging gums.
Since it’s an enzyme-based formula, toothpaste can be used on a daily basis. However, you can perform brushing less often: some consumers claim they managed to reduce dental problems by simply letting their cats lick the paste every day. The malt flavor is pretty pleasant for the majority of feline users – its smell reminds cat foods.
Pros:
- All-natural safe formula;
- Improves dental health even when a cat licks it;
- Non-expensive;
- Appealing malt flavor.
Cons:
- Caused diarrhea in a few cases.
- Size: 2.5 oz / 70 g
If your cat is finicky, finding a non-toxic cat toothpaste with an attractive flavor might be a problem. This is when pet owners resolve to costlier options, and CET Toothpaste is one of them: thanks to its seafood flavor, it becomes a real treat for both cats and dogs. The enzyme-based formula removes debris and prevents tartar formation. Besides, it’s enhanced with anti-bacterial properties. The paste can be used daily – it’s pretty safe and useful for tartar control.
Since there is no brush included, you should buy one. Generally, the product is easy to use and most cats like it. Its gel-like consistency is appealing to a cat, so you can let your pet lick the paste. If your pet does not like seafood flavor, CET offers a wide selection of other tasty toothpastes.
Pros:
- All-natural enzyme formula;
- Great for tartar control;
- Long-lasting tube.
Cons:
- Relatively expensive;
- Comes without a brush;
- Some cats hate seafood flavor.
- SIze: 2.5 oz / 70 g
Here is a decent alternative for a cat toothpaste to heal gingivitis: VetzLife oral gel not only eliminates bad breath, but also protects against plaque, tartar, and gingivitis. It can also be used when a cat has already acquired dental health problems. The formula is enhanced with grape seed and various plant oils: this is an all-natural solution that reduces inflammation without affecting the gastrointestinal system.
The proprietary blend of herbs reduces bacteria buildup, fights inflammation and infections, and improves natural gum and tooth resistance. There is no need to use a toothbrush: you can let your cat lick the gel once a day. If your pet has serious dental issues, use it twice a day. There are two flavors available: mint and salmon – choose what appeals to your feline friend. Judging by customer reviews, this is truly the best cat toothpaste for gingivitis because the difference is visible within a few days already.
Pros:
- Very efficient against gingivitis and tartar;
- Reduces inflammation;
- Herb-based all-natural formula;
- Easy to use.
Cons:
- Expensive;
- Some users complain about the too strong smell.
- Size: 4.5 oz / 130 g
One more vet-approved solution in my lineup, Vetoquinol is a triple-enzyme formula that removes debris, plaque, and tartar, and is highly recommended for gingivitis prevention. It freshens breath and does not foam: your pet can swallow the paste without risks (trust me, the chicken flavor will make your pet gulp saliva). No rinsing is required, and you can perform cleaning procedures every 2-3 days (for better results, use daily).
The paste comes with a convenient toothbrush – it’s a good option for adult cats. If you have a kitten, a finger brush might be better. Aside from having enzymes, the paste protects teeth against bacteria thanks to sorbitol, calcium lactate, and zinc. It’s also enriched with Vitamin E for gum health. This paste is a great option for kittens as it does not irritate gums and stomach.
Pros:
- Convenient brush included;
- Safe formula;
- Appealing chicken flavor;
- Great for treating and preventing dental diseases.
Cons:
- Pretty expensive;
- Brush bristles are too firm for some pets.
- Size: 3.2 oz / 90 g
Since Intelligent cat toothpaste ingredients are saliva-based, it has proved to be efficient against plaque, tartar, and gingivitis. The paste gently removes residues of food and bacteria, eliminates bad breath promoting healthy feline oral care. Its flavor-free formula makes the paste neutral, and many pets like that. You won’t find xylitol and foaming agents in the contents, which makes this product suitable for daily use.
Intelligent toothpaste is sold without a brush, so you should take care of it yourself. You can let your pet lick it – the effect will also be visible. It’s recommended to use the paste 5-7 times a week. It will not only reduce bacteria but strengthen enamel thanks to pearl powder. Besides, glucose oxidase will decompose sugars preventing tartar.
- An efficient formula prevents and fights dental diseases;
- No flavor – some pets like that;
- Safe to swallow and use daily.
Cons:
- Expensive;
- Comes without a brush.
To provide complex prevention & treatment for your cat, use Oxyfresh water additive, cat toothpaste, and brush – they all are gathered in a single kit. The formula freshens breath, eliminates bacteria, removes plaque and tartar, and Aloe Barbadensis leaf juice with chamomile reduces gum inflammation. They enhance the natural resistance of enamel to bacteria and prevent diseases. The toothpaste can be used 2-4 times a week, while water additives can be utilized every day.
One kit comes with three finger brushes, which means you can find a suitable option for your cat or kitten without problems. The toothpaste does not have any distinguishable flavor, so even picky cats will be okay with brushing. However, you should watch your cat not to swallow too much paste – it might cause a stomach upsetting.
Pros:
- The kit includes water additive and three brushes;
- Relatively safe formula;
- Neutral flavor;
- Non-expensive.
Cons:
- Some pets don’t like the subtle flavor of the paste;
- Finger brushes are too big for kittens.
If you’re searching for coconut oil cat toothpaste with all-natural components, the product from Andy Anand will be just right. It contains the whole array of organic ingredients: oils of mint, fennel, ginseng, neem, and clove. Coconut oil cleanses teeth hole calcium strengthens them. The paste freshens breath and reduces tartar preventing gingivitis and other dental issues.
The formula includes turmeric, a natural antioxidant that reduces inflammation and gum issues and has calming properties. By regularly using this product (5-7 times a week), you will protect your cat against dental problems for good. The poultry flavor makes it highly appealing for a pet, but the paste can be swollen – it doesn’t foam.
Pros:
- Non-expensive;
- Has poultry flavor;
- Can be used regularly;
- All-natural oils for efficient protection and cleaning.
Cons:
- No brush included;
- The formula contains xylitol, but it’s not mentioned in the contents.
- Size: 3.5 oz
Probably, the best expensive cat toothpaste, Nylabone kit includes all essential tools for proper dental care: safe paste, small finger cot, and a tiny angled brush that can reach the most hard-to-reach spots. The brush features ultra-soft nylon tips that can clean between teeth and massage gums. It helps to reduce plaque and tartar and improve overall dental health.
The proprietary Denta-C formula reduces plaque and fights bacteria helping to prevent and treat diseases like gingivitis. Although it contains mild chemicals, it can be used in kittens older than three months and is suitable for daily brushing. One 2.5-ounce tube may last for a few months. Even though the paste has a somewhat sweet smell and flavor, the majority of pets like it.
Pros:
- The kit contains all essential tools;
- Denta-C formula is efficient against plaque;
- Optimal flavor.
Cons:
- Expensive;
- Some users don’t like the brush and say it’s inconvenient.
- Size: 2.5 oz / 70 g
What are the types of cat toothpaste?
The type of toothpaste mostly depends on the components used. There are two main options available:
- Enzyme-based toothpastes are more aggressive: they eliminate plaque build-up efficiently. Such toothpaste is recommended when a cat already has dental problems, and they should be addressed without delay. When using enzyme paste, you don’t have to make the brushing procedure too long – a couple of minutes will be enough for proper cleaning. Besides, enzymes continue removing bacteria and protecting enamel from plaque even when the process is over.
- CET enzymatic toothpaste typically uses two enzymes – glucose oxidase and lactoperoxidase – they have antibacterial properties and neutralize odors. Besides, they are available in a large number of flavors.
- Natural toothpastes are not as strong as enzymatic ones, but they are safer. You don’t have to worry about your pet swallowing it – the components are harmless. Note that the use of natural paste means you have to brush the cat’s teeth longer.
- Gel is not always used with a brush – some cat owners let their pets lick the substance. It will protect the enamel against plaque and bacteria throughout the day.
- Chemical-based products may contain potentially harmful components, for example, xylitol. When swallowed, it can affect the cat’s digestion and well-being. Such options are rare, but you should always read content and check every component.
It goes without mentioning the kits, which include toothpaste and toothbrushes. Most often, a set has a plastic brush: it’s bent for reaching the far-off teeth easier. Rubber finger brushes are recommended for kittens.
Aside from pastes, water additives are used. They are put into cat’s drinking water and stay absolutely unnoticeable thanks to the absence of flavor. Additives protect teeth from bacteria and keep plaque at bay. Such products are highly recommended for both the prevention and treatment of gingivitis and other issues.
Which ingredients should I look for when buying a cat toothpaste?
It depends on the effect you need. As we have mentioned, enzymes are more powerful in combating bacteria and plaque. Note that not all enzymes form an antibacterial substance – they are not equally efficient. Which components to look for?
- Glucose oxidase (GOx) oxidizes glucose which makes it turn into hydrogen peroxide and clean teeth;
- Lactoperoxidate (LPO) thiocyanate via the hydrogen peroxide formed from the GOx reaction to create an intermediary product – it has been proved to fight against bacteria.
Other hydrogen-producing enzymes are also highly recommended.
If you’re in search of a natural safe cat toothpaste, note that it can include:
- Silica is an abrasive substance that removes plaque and resides of food from teeth;
- Sorbitol is a sweetener that can slightly improve paste flavor;
- Glycerin saturates toothpaste with moisture preventing drying out;
- Calcium Carbonate is an abrasive and whitening agent that removes spots and stains from teeth;
- Sodium Benzoate prevents bacteria spreading in the paste;
- Xanthan gum is a thickening substance for optimal texture and consistency.
Some ingredients might be potentially hazardous for pets. The following components should be avoided:
- Fluoride is toxic when consumed in large quantities, this is why it’s not usually added in pet pastes;
- Baking Soda does not play much role in cleaning but when consumed in large quantities may be poisonous
- Xylitol, one of the most widespread sugar substitutes, can be toxic for dogs, but it’s danger for cats is arguable. It’s often added to toothpastes, so it’s up to you to decide whether you want your pet to consume it.
Further reading:
Which flavors are available?
When it comes to flavors, the choice is not so wide, but it’s more than enough for you to figure out an optimal variant for your beloved pet.
There are three typical flavors available:
- Meat and seafood are the most preferable variant since pets are attracted by this smell and taste, and let owners brush their teeth more readily. However, it means your pet will be tempted to swallow such paste, so make sure it doesn’t contain dangerous chemicals.
- Mint, vanilla, and other sweet flavors are very specific – that’s not what I offer for finicky cats. Do not rush to buy a large tube, test such toothpaste and decide whether your pet likes it.
- Flavorless pastes are pretty rare, but should be used when none of both options work. Since the cat does not feel the taste of the substance, it might be embarrassed by the process of brushing teeth. It will take some time for an animal to get used to it.
FAQ
What would be considered negative effects from cat toothpaste?
If you use appropriate products, your cat will be absolutely safe. However, if the paste has some dangerous chemicals, in the long term, it might cause digestion problems. Never use human toothpaste for a cat: fluoride can make a pet ill when digested in large quantities.
Why can’t you use regular toothpaste for a cat?
Many human toothpastes contain fluoride, detergents, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol: all of them are potentially dangerous for a cat’s health. When digested in large quantities, they can cause stomach upset and illness in pets. It goes without mentioning that strong mint flavor will irritate a cat’s mouth.
Which toothpaste is best for cats with stomatitis?
If your cat has serious dental issues, opt for enzymatic toothpastes. They are more efficient than all-natural alternatives because enzymes help to fight bacteria during and after brushing. They will create a natural barrier on the enamel to keep plaque at bay. If the inflammation is too serious, you can also try herbal toothpastes that reduce swelling and accelerate healing.
How effective is cat toothpaste?
As I’ve mentioned, regular tooth brushing kills about 70% of bacteria in the cat’s mouth, so it’s a great measure of prevention. By brushing your cat’s teeth every day or 3-5 times a week, you can avoid gingivitis and related diseases with the possibility of 90%.
How much cat toothpaste to use?
Since the cat’s teeth are pretty small, you don’t need to use much toothpaste: a small bean will be enough. Also, you can let your cat lick a small amount of paste from your finger – they do it more readily.
Can cat toothpaste cause diarrhea?
Yes, diarrhea can be caused by eating too much toothpaste that contains dangerous chemicals like fluoride and xylitol. When consumed in the long term and large quantities, they can cause digestion disorders, including diarrhea. No matter which pet toothpaste you use, store it out of the cat’s reach.
Conclusion
To sum it up, cat tooth brushing is important for preserving dental health: it not only keeps pet’s breath fresh, but also protects against plaque, oral tumors and inflammations, and other serious outcomes. The market offers an enormous amount of cat toothpastes, but they are not equally safe and suitable for pets. There is a large choice of all-natural solutions with oils and extracts – they can be used without limits on a daily basis. If your cat has already acquired a dental disease like stomatitis and dental fraction, I recommend using an enzymatic toothpaste: it will remove plaque and provide a long-lasting effect.
Alternatively, you can use a homemade toothpaste if your pet is averted by all the options you offer, or there are specific health needs. I will cover this topic in detail a bit later.
Please, note that cats should be trained for tooth brushing: the later you start, the steeper will be a learning curve. It’s better to start cleaning kitten’s teeth once it turns 2-3 months old: this way, your pet will get used to the procedure without problems.