My pet hates teeth brushing. What are easier dental care options?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 1 year and 2 months old | 8.2 lbs
I'm having lots of trouble with brushing Luna's teeth, she absolutely hates it. She hates anyone getting near her mouth (it's also really hard to give her oral meds). Even if you hold her against her will she will never calm down and just keep trying to get out. Are there any tips to make it easier? Or any alternatives?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on May 18th, 2018
Hi and thanks for posting! Don't worry- you are not alone! Many pets do not enjoy their owners brushing their teeth. The best thing really is to have a professional dental scaling with your veterinarian once a year. However, there are many dental products out there to help decrease plaque formation and prevent dental calculus build up. Perhaps a dental chewable, water additive, or a dental spray would be easier. I have included below a link to a list of dental products approved by the veterinary oral health council. http://www.vohc.org/VOHCAcceptedProductsTable_Cats.pdf I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on October 4th, 2019
Nice work on keeping Precious' teeth healthy! Here is a list of products for pets that have been proven to help maintain healthy teeth: http://www.vohc.org/accepted_products_dogs.html I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on August 1st, 2019
Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. I recommend getting Snoop Hill's T/D, it's a dental food that you can give him as snacks. You can also get a dental water additive like Arm & Hammer. You can find that at a pet store. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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