Bad breath in dogs and cats is a common issue and can indicate underlying health problems. Good oral hygiene can prevent bacteria from affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver.

Taking care of dental health is crucial for your pet's overall well-being. And in this blog post, we’d like to share 6 powerful plant-based tips on dental health.

#1. Fresh, non-stinky ingredients

Vegan pet food freshens up the breath as compared to conventional meat-based diets simply because it doesn't use any stinky ingredients. On the contrary, it uses oats, peas, lentils, potatoes, corn and other plant-based ingredients!

So as much as possible use plant-powered foods, treats and supplements and the breath of your furry friend will start to smell much better.

#2. Specialized Dental Chews

There are special treats that freshen up the breath - for example, treats with mint and parsley and cinnamon. Vivus dental treats are pricey, but they are specifically designed for the job.

#3. Sweet Potato Treats

Sweet potato chews have mildly abrasive texture and can flex around the teeth to scrape off some plaque for better dental health. They come in different shapes: strips, chews and bones/knots.

Sweet Potato Treats	Pawtato Knots
mechanically cleanses teeth & removes tartar rich in fibre contain vitamin B6, vitamin C, beta carotene, and manganese	Healthier & safer alternative to rawhide treats Contains dietary fiber for digestive health Available in 2 sizes: small knots & large knots

#4. Scraping effect of Dry food

Dry kibble can be beneficial for dental health, as it scrapes off some of the plaque from the top of the teeth and removes food particles (ensure plenty of water is available after the dry food meal for proper hydration).

It’s worth noting that dry kibble by itself is not something that will guarantee dental health, because it’s not super effective against plaque and tartar. Dental treats and brushing are much more effective than the scraping effect of dry food alone.

Nevertheless, dry kibble made of plant-based ingredients will freshen up the breath when compared to meat-based dry kibble counterparts, because plant-based ingredients have a much better aroma and are more easily digested (and it also scrapes off some plaque).

#5. Moist Food for Senior pets

Soft food is a good choice for when excessive pressure on teeth causes discomfort or pain, which is often the case for senior dogs and cats. Extra life moist food and soft pumpkin puree are great for that.

Keep in mind, however, that moist food can stick to teeth, which can become the source of bacteria, smelly breath, and cause dental issues. So we recommend giving a soft dental treat (such as Vivus) after the meal or better yet brushing the teeth with a special toothpaste for pets (see more on brushing below).

#6. Brushing Frequently

Regular brushing with pet-safe toothpaste is essential. It helps removing food particles, plaque and bacteria, preventing gum disease and bad breath.

Of course it’s easier said than done, and below are a few tips on brushing your companion animal’s teeth:

1. start brushing their teeth when they are young when it’s easy to train them

2. let them lick a small amount of toothpaste so they get used to it a little

3. start by rubbing gently with a cloth on their gums and teeth (no toothpaste yet)

4. put small amount of toothpaste on your finger and gently rub against their teeth and gums so they get comfortable with the process

5. as they get more comfortable, then change to a toothbrush with toothpaste

At the beginning, brush a couple of days a week to train them, and then you can switch to brushing their teeth daily.

Good luck!

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