Cats are notorious for their dental hygiene, or lack thereof. While they may not be able to brush their own teeth, there are certain foods that can help clean their teeth and promote better overall dental health. Many cats love these foods and will happily eat them in order to get the added benefit of dental care. Read on to learn more about what foods can clean cats teeth and help keep their mouths healthy.
Introduction
Table of Contents
Cats are known for their cleanliness and good hygiene. Unfortunately, their teeth often fall victim to tarter and plaque buildup, which can lead to gum disease, infection, and bad breath. Regular brushing with a toothbrush is ideal, but not all cats are open to it. Fortunately, there are a few foods that can help keep your cat’s teeth clean, healthy, and free of disease.
Raw Meat and Bones
The natural diet of cats is raw meat and bones, which helps keep their teeth clean. Feeding your cat raw meat, such as chicken, turkey, or beef, can help scrape off plaque and tarter buildup. Bones can also be beneficial, as they are abrasive and will help clean your cat’s teeth. Keep in mind that you should never feed cooked bones to your cat, as they can splinter and cause blockages in the intestines.
Chewing Toys
Chewing toys can also help keep your cat’s teeth clean. Look for toys that are specifically designed to help clean teeth, such as rubber chew toys or dental chews. These can help reduce plaque and tarter buildup and keep your cat’s teeth healthy.
Dry Cat Food
Dry cat food can also help keep your cat’s teeth clean. Dry food is abrasive, which helps scrape off plaque and tarter buildup. It’s also a great way to keep your cat’s teeth healthy, as it can help reduce the risk of gum disease.
Canned Cat Food
Canned cat food is another option for cleaning your cat’s teeth. Canned food can also help reduce plaque and tarter buildup, as it is softer and easier to chew than dry food. However, it’s important to remember that canned food should not be used as a substitute for brushing your cat’s teeth.
Herbs and Spices
Adding herbs and spices to your cat’s food can help keep their teeth clean. Parsley, fennel, and dill are all known for their antibacterial and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce bad breath and keep your cat’s teeth clean.
Conclusion
Keeping your cat’s teeth clean and healthy is essential for their overall health and wellbeing. While brushing your cat’s teeth is the best option, there are a few foods that can help keep their teeth clean and free of plaque and tarter buildup. Raw meat, bones, dry food, canned food, chew toys, and herbs and spices are all great options for keeping your cat’s teeth clean.
**Common Myths About Cleaning Cats’ Teeth**
1. Myth: Cats don’t need to have their teeth cleaned.
Fact: Just like humans, cats can suffer from plaque and tartar buildup. Regularly brushing your cat’s teeth can help prevent dental disease and keep their teeth clean.
2. Myth: Dry food alone is enough to keep cats’ teeth clean.
Fact: While dry food can help prevent plaque buildup, it is not enough to keep cats’ teeth clean. Brushing your cat’s teeth or providing them with dental treats can help keep their teeth clean.
3. Myth: Cats can’t eat human food to clean their teeth.
Fact: While human food is generally not recommended for cats, some foods can actually help clean their teeth. Crunchy vegetables, like carrots and celery, can help scrape away plaque and tartar buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What foods clean cats teeth?
Answer: Some foods that help clean cats teeth include crunchy kibble, raw or cooked meaty bones, and freeze-dried treats. Additionally, dental treats, such as Greenies, can help to keep cats’ teeth clean.
How often should I feed my cat dental treats?
Answer: It is recommended to feed your cat dental treats once or twice per week. Additionally, brushing your cat’s teeth regularly is an important part of a dental care routine.
Conclusion
. Cats need regular dental care to prevent gum disease, infections, and bad breath. Feeding them raw meat and bones, providing chew toys, and adding herbs and spices to their food are all ways to help keep their teeth clean. Dry and canned cat food can also help reduce plaque and tarter buildup. Brushing is the best option for maintaining good dental hygiene, but these other options are a good supplement.
