Best Treats for Dental Health

By PetEssentialist Team · Updated July 2026 · How we review

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🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is Greenies Feline Adult Dental Cat Treats — best for breeds prone to periodontal disease. Why it wins: VOHC accepted for tartar control.

Periodontal disease affects over 70% of cats by age three, with breeds like Siamese, Abyssinian, and Maine Coon being particularly susceptible. The condition can lead to painful gum inflammation, tooth loss, and even systemic infections. Providing the right dental treats can significantly reduce the risk of periodontal disease in these breeds. Cats with periodontal disease often exhibit bad breath, yellow or brown teeth, and reluctance to eat. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are crucial, but dental treats specifically designed for tartar control, plaque reduction, and gum support can make a significant difference. These treats help remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of gum disease and promoting overall oral health. When selecting dental treats for breeds prone to periodontal disease, it's essential to consider size, texture, and ingredients. Treats should be large enough to encourage chewing but not so large that they pose a choking hazard. A crunchy texture can help remove plaque and tartar, while high-protein, low-calorie ingredients support overall health.

What to look for

Treat Size and Texture

Treats should be sized appropriately for the breed, with a texture that encourages chewing and helps remove plaque and tartar. Crunchy treats are often effective, but some cats may prefer softer options.

Ingredients and Nutrition

High-protein, low-calorie ingredients are essential for supporting overall health, while avoiding fillers and by-products can reduce the risk of allergies and sensitivities.

Dental Health Benefits

Look for treats specifically designed for tartar control, plaque reduction, and gum support, with features like VOHC acceptance or dental veterinarian recommendations.

Breed-Specific Needs

Consider the specific needs of your breed, such as hairball control or limited-ingredient diets, and choose treats that cater to these requirements.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Greenies Feline Adult Dental Cat Treats	breeds prone to periodontal disease
2	Blue Buffalo Bursts Crunchy Cat Treats	breeds with dental issues
3	Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Treats	breeds requiring high-protein treats
4	Wellness Kittles Grain-Free Crunchy Cat Treats	breeds with grain allergies
5	Inaba Churu Lickable Puree Cat Treats	breeds with sensitive teeth

Greenies Feline Adult Dental Cat Treats

Best for breeds prone to periodontal disease

Greenies Feline Adult Dental Cat Treats are specifically designed for tartar control, plaque reduction, and gum support, making them an excellent choice for breeds like Siamese, Abyssinian, and Maine Coon. The crunchy texture helps remove plaque and tartar, while the VOHC acceptance ensures their effectiveness.

✓ VOHC accepted for tartar control
✓ crunchy texture cleans teeth
✓ complete and balanced as a treat

✕ may be too large for small breeds

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Blue Buffalo Bursts Crunchy Cat Treats

Best for breeds with dental issues

Blue Buffalo Bursts Crunchy Cat Treats offer a crunchy texture with a soft savory center, making them an excellent option for breeds with dental issues. The lack of chicken or poultry by-product meals and artificial flavors or preservatives reduces the risk of allergies and sensitivities.

✓ crunchy texture helps remove plaque
✓ no chicken or poultry by-product meals
✓ no artificial flavors or preservatives

✕ may not be as effective as Greenies for tartar control

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Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Treats

Best for breeds requiring high-protein treats

Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Treats offer single-ingredient freeze-dried raw protein, making them an excellent option for breeds requiring high-protein treats. The lack of fillers and additives reduces the risk of allergies and sensitivities.

✓ high-protein, low-calorie ingredients
✓ no fillers or additives
✓ single-ingredient freeze-dried raw protein

✕ may be too rich for some breeds

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Wellness Kittles Grain-Free Crunchy Cat Treats

Best for breeds with grain allergies

Wellness Kittles Grain-Free Crunchy Cat Treats offer a grain-free, crunchy texture, making them an excellent option for breeds with grain allergies. The natural ingredients and lack of meat by-products reduce the risk of allergies and sensitivities.

✓ grain-free crunchy treats
✓ natural ingredients
✓ no meat by-products

✕ may not be as effective as Greenies for tartar control

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Inaba Churu Lickable Puree Cat Treats

Best for breeds with sensitive teeth

Inaba Churu Lickable Puree Cat Treats offer a lickable wet puree in tubes, making them an excellent option for breeds with sensitive teeth. The high moisture content and grain-free ingredients reduce the risk of allergies and sensitivities.

✓ lickable wet puree in tubes
✓ high moisture content
✓ grain-free ingredients

✕ may not be as effective as crunchy treats for tartar control

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I give my cat dental treats?

The frequency of dental treats depends on your cat's individual needs and the specific product. Generally, it's recommended to give dental treats 2-3 times a week, but always follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult with your veterinarian.

Can I use dental treats as a replacement for regular brushing?

No, dental treats should not replace regular brushing. While they can help reduce plaque and tartar, brushing is still essential for removing bacteria and debris from your cat's teeth.

Are dental treats suitable for kittens?

Yes, dental treats can be suitable for kittens, but it's essential to choose treats specifically designed for their age and size. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing dental treats to your kitten's diet.

Can I give my cat too many dental treats?

Yes, giving your cat too many dental treats can lead to an imbalance in their diet and potentially cause digestive issues. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult with your veterinarian to determine the right amount for your cat.

Do dental treats really work?

Yes, dental treats can be effective in reducing plaque and tartar, but their effectiveness depends on the specific product and your cat's individual needs. Look for products with VOHC acceptance or dental veterinarian recommendations for the best results.

For breeds prone to periodontal disease, Greenies Feline Adult Dental Cat Treats are an excellent choice, offering VOHC acceptance and a crunchy texture that helps remove plaque and tartar. Ultimately, the best dental treat for your cat will depend on their individual needs and preferences, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian to determine the most effective option.

Best Treats for other breeds

The same category, matched to a different breed.