🦷 The best toys to clean your cat's teeth

April 6, 2025

When we think about our cats' health, we often focus on nutrition, vaccinations, and regular vet visits. But what about their teeth? Feline oral health is often overlooked and can have serious consequences. The good news? Your cat can take care of their teeth… while having fun!

In this article, we'll show you the best dental toys for cats and explain how they can help keep your dog's mouth healthy and clean, without the stress or brushing!

Why is it important to take care of your cat's teeth?

Studies show that more than 70% of adult cats develop some form of periodontal disease over the course of their lives*. The most common problems include:

Plaque and tartar
Gingivitis
Bad breath
Tooth loss
Chronic pain and infections that can affect other organs

Prevention is key, and that's where dental toys come in.

*Source: Today's Veterinary Nurse

How do dental toys work?

These toys are designed with special materials and textures that help remove plaque from the teeth while the cat chews or plays. Some contain natural ingredients like catnip or matatabi , which make the toy even more appealing.

Chewing stimulates the production of saliva, which helps neutralize bacteria, while friction on tooth surfaces helps remove accumulated debris.

The best types of toys for cleaning teeth

1. Toys with catnip and abrasive texture

These are ideal for cats who like to cuddle and chew on fabric toys.
Combining catnip with rough fabrics, such as linen or knitwear, encourages prolonged chewing.

🟢 Examples: Little fish or cushions stuffed with catnip and a textured surface.

Note: Gatursos is developing eco-friendly fabric toys filled with catnip and other herbs that produce calming or energizing effects. We'll update this blog post when the toys are ready for your cat!

➡️ Benefits:

Stimulate chewing
They help remove plaque
Relax the cat

2. Rubber toys with grooves

These toys are usually made of flexible rubber or silicone, with deep grooves or ridges that “brush” the cat’s teeth as it bites.

💡 Tip: Put a little cat-specific toothpaste in the grooves to enhance the effect.

➡️ Benefits:

Effective plaque removal
Durability
Can be used with toothpaste

Suggestion: Rub Funny Ball - Organic Cat Toy

3. Natural Dental Sticks: Matatabi and Silvervine

These sticks come from natural Asian plants with properties similar to catnip, but even more effective for some cats.

Cats enjoy chewing and chewing on these sticks, which helps strengthen their gums and reduce tartar buildup.

➡️ Benefits:

100% natural
Highly attractive
Strengthening gums and oral hygiene

You can read more about Matatabi here .

4. Interactive toys with rope or feathers

Hanging toys with feathers or strings encourage hunting and biting. And every bite counts toward oral hygiene!

➡️ Benefits:

Mental stimulation
Promote chewing
Increase physical activity

Suggestions:

Toys with Matatabi

Cork Stopper with Feathers

Hemp Rope with Sound

4. Dental snacks

Snacks specifically developed to take care of oral health.

➡️ Benefits:

Tasty
Promote chewing
Clean your teeth

Suggestions:

Dental snacks

How many times a week should a cat use dental toys?

Ideally, your cat should have daily access to dental toys. You can rotate toys to maintain interest and ensure your cat is always stimulated.

💬 If your cat doesn't show interest in one type of toy, try another, everyone has different preferences!

Extra tip from Gatursos.com.br

In our store, you'll find a carefully selected selection of dental toys approved by veterinarians and tested by discerning kitties 🐾. We only choose products that truly make a difference in the lives and health of cats.

Conclusion

Cat oral health doesn't have to be a nightmare! With the right toys, you can provide your cat with a fun and effective routine to keep their teeth clean and gums healthy.

👉 Playing has never been so important, and so beneficial!