Ever caught a whiff of your cat’s breath and immediately regretted it? You’re not alone. Just like us, our cats need dental care too—but brushing their teeth? Yeah, good luck with that. That’s where dental treats for cats come in. They’re the sneaky, crunchy way to promote oral health without the hissy fits and scratch battles.
From reducing tartar buildup to freshening breath and even supporting overall gum health, dental treats offer benefits beyond just being tasty snacks. And with so many on the market—grain-free, natural, vet-approved—how do you choose the right one? Easy. We’ve rounded up 12 of the best dental treats your cat will actually want to eat (and might even beg for).
Stick around to discover which treats do more than just quiet the meows and how each one can contribute to a healthier, happier feline mouth. Trust us, your nose will thank you.
1. Greenies Feline Dental Treats
Greenies Feline Dental Treats don’t just win hearts—they win veterinarian thumbs up too. Their VOHC approval for tartar control means you’re not just getting tasty snacks; you’re investing in real dental care.
The crunchy texture? Not just satisfying—it actually scrapes away plaque and tartar as your cat chews. Your kitty thinks it’s snack time. You know it’s secretly a health boost.
Flavors like Oven Roasted Chicken keep things interesting. Plus, they’re under 2 calories each—so snack time doesn’t wreck the diet. Good for adult cats, they come in multiple sizes at a budget-friendly price (starting around $3 per bag).
Whether your cat loves dry food or just needs a tasty alternative to wet cat food, these dental treats for cats simplify oral hygiene. No brushing, no fuss—just crunch.
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2. Purina DentaLife Dental Treats for Cats
Purina DentaLife treats are more than just tasty snacks—they’re scientifically tested to help reduce tartar buildup. That’s a huge win for cats with dental issues or bad breath that could knock you over from three feet away.
Their unique porous texture is what sets them apart. Each bite cleans all the way to the gumline. Plus, it takes a little effort to chew, which only boosts the dental benefit. Think of it as a toothbrush disguised as a crunchy treat.
If your furball tends to dodge the toothbrush (don’t they all?), these dental treats for cats are an easy, vet-approved upgrade. They’re free of artificial flavors and colors, too.
Reasonably priced and cat-approved, they’re great for everyday dental health without the wrestling match.
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3. Wellness Kittles Grain-Free Dental Treats
Wellness Kittles are a crunchy win for cats who crave flavor but steer clear of grains. Made with real chicken, salmon, or tuna, these tiny treats pack big benefits into a tiny, 2-calorie bite.
They’re perfect for felines with food sensitivities. No wheat, corn, soy, or anything artificial—just natural goodness that also scrubs their teeth clean. Yes, the texture isn’t just satisfying to chomp on—it helps reduce plaque and tartar too.
Ideal for cats who won’t tolerate many mainstream snacks, these dental treats for cats are more than just tasty. They leave kitty breath fresher, and your guilt lower, thanks to clean ingredients.
If your cat won’t surrender their treats but needs better oral care, this is your secret weapon. Sold at competitive pricing, it’s budget-friendly dental health in disguise.
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4. I and Love and You Cat Treats
Trying to keep kitty’s teeth sparkly without the stress of brushing? I and Love and You Cat Treats might be your new go-to. These aren’t your average crunchies—they’re packed with high-quality proteins like chicken and salmon, minus the junk like fillers or artificial flavors.
Health-conscious pet parents will love that these dental treats for cats are low-calorie and grain-free, making them ideal for daily use. Better teeth, fewer calories? Yep, it’s a win-win. Plus, they help freshen breath while satisfying your cat’s craving for a quick nibble.
And if you’ve got a finicky feline at home, the taste tends to be a crowd-pleaser. Bonus: they’re easier to digest than many other snacks, which is great news for sensitive tummies or picky eaters who usually snub cat food (wet or dry).
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5. Blue Buffalo Bursts Dental Cat Treats
Blue Buffalo Bursts Dental Cat Treats deliver a delightful crunch outside and a creamy surprise inside. These treats are a win for flavor and feline fascination. Ideal for picky eaters who crave variety, they offer a texture combo your cat won’t ignore.
Made with natural ingredients and boosted with essential vitamins and minerals, these treats help your cat’s teeth stay clean—no artificial stuff needed. That means no corn, wheat, soy, or chicken by-product meals. These are guilt-free snacks your cat can enjoy daily.
They help reduce tartar with every bite—because brushing your cat’s teeth probably isn’t happening. Bonus? They come in fun flavors and are reasonably priced, making repeat buys feel like a no-brainer.
If you’re after dental treats for cats that don’t compromise on taste or nutrition, this is your treat. And your cat’s new obsession.
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6. Emerald Pet Dental Treats for Cats
Emerald Pet Dental Treats for Cats deliver more than just crunch—they’re a grain-free, vegetarian-friendly option made entirely in the USA. That’s a win for conscious pet parents who care about both nutrition and sourcing.
Crafted with natural ingredients, these treats support daily dental care without relying on meat proteins. Ideal for households avoiding animal by-products and looking for gentle, non-irritating solutions.
They help freshen breath and reduce tartar buildup through mechanical chewing—no artificial flavors, no weird fillers. Just clean teeth and a happier kitty mouth. Their fish-shaped bites are fun to eat and work well for adult cats of all sizes.
A solid alternative if your feline resists brushing. If you’re juggling dry and wet cat food options, tossing in a few of these can balance things out in a tasty, functional way.
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7. Loving Pets Naturals Health Support Dental Sticks
Loving Pets Naturals Health Support Dental Sticks are a clever way to reward without guilt. Specifically designed to support tooth and gum health, these dental sticks sneak in real functionality with every bite.
They’re perfect for cats who need more than just a treat. Beyond chewing satisfaction, they include parsley and peppermint—two fresh-breath heroes your couch may thank you for. Seriously, cat kisses should be enjoyable.
These dental treats for cats are grain-free, with no additives, so sensitive tummies don’t get punished. The texture also helps reduce plaque, making your next vet visit a little less expensive… hopefully.
If you’re looking for more than routine cat food (wet or dry), try these functional chews that double as a kitty breath mint and oral care assistant.
Get Loving Pets Naturals Health Support Dental Sticks
8. Inaba Churu Dental Treats
These aren’t your average dental treats for cats. Inaba Churu Dental Treats take a different route—lickable and lovable. Ideal for finicky eaters or senior cats who can’t chew like they used to, they offer a tasty solution that doesn’t compromise on health.
Each tube features real chicken and added dental enzymes, helping to reduce tartar buildup with consistent use. Bonus? No artificial colors or preservatives. So yes, your kitty can enjoy a snack that’s both yummy and tooth-friendly.
The smooth texture makes it a winner for cats who prefer wet food or who have sensitive mouths. Also, it doubles as a mix-in for regular cat food (wet or dry), making medication sneaking a breeze.
Affordable, practical, and vet-recommended—this treat brings smiles, one lick at a time.
9. Virbac C.E.T. IntelliDent Cat Bites
Virbac C.E.T. IntelliDent Cat Bites bring science-backed dental defense to snack time. Crafted by one of the most respected veterinary brands, they’re made for cats with ongoing dental issues or lots of plaque drama.
A triple-action formula tackles tartar buildup, freshens breath, and supports gums. Even better, they’re grain-free and made with quality ingredients. Ideal for cats who don’t love getting their teeth brushed—so, most cats.
While not a complete meal replacement like wet food for cats, these treats complement a regular diet by promoting daily oral care. Each crunchy bite is a little toothbrush in disguise (don’t tell your cat).
With prices hovering around $9–$12 per bag, it’s a smart dental investment. Plus, picky cats seem to love them.
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10. Tiki Cat Stix Dental Treats
Not every cat crunches! For creamy-loving kitties, Tiki Cat Stix Dental Treats are a game-changer. These soft, lickable treats combine irresistible taste with subtle dental benefits—pretty rare for non-crunchy snacks.
Crafted with real chicken or tuna, each stick is packed with moisture to promote hydration. That’s a win for any cat that ignores the water bowl. Thanks to their low calories, they’re perfect for daily indulgence without stressing about weight gain.
These dental treats for cats also include functional ingredients aimed at oral support—yes, even a paste can help reduce plaque if formulated well. Great for cats who turn up their noses at crunchy chews.
While they won’t replace a brush, they’ll certainly make your job easier and your cat happier. It’s sneaky health wrapped in pure delight.
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11. VetIQ Minties Dental Treats
VetIQ Minties Dental Treats are a breath of fresh air—literally. Made specifically for oral care, they help fight plaque and tartar while naturally freshening your cat’s mouth with real mint.
They’re veterinarian-recommended, so you know they’re not just tasty—they’re safe and effective too. That smelly cat breath? Gone. Sensitive gums? Handled.
Best part? They contain no wheat, corn, or artificial flavors, which makes them ideal for felines with dietary sensitivities. Unlike many dental treats for cats, these are intentionally simple and clean.
Throw a couple into the mix between meals (or after wet cat food meals for a fresh finish). Just don’t let your kitty talk you into devouring the whole bag at once.
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12. Simply Nourish Dental Cat Treats
Simply Nourish Dental Cat Treats are a smart choice for pet parents focused on both health and flavor. These treats balance taste with grain-free, clean ingredients that support your feline’s specific dietary needs.
Ideal for cats on special diets, they offer a double benefit: gentle cleaning action for teeth and support for healthy digestion. If your cat has sensitivities or you’re avoiding grains altogether, these fit the bill—no wheat, corn, or soy.
What’s more, the texture encourages chewing, which helps scrape away plaque. That means fewer vet visits and better breath. Not a bad win-win, right?
While not exactly a replacement for brushing, they’re a handy add-on to your dental care routine. Plus, if your cat is a little picky with wet cat food, adding a few of these crunchy bites might do the trick.
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Common Questions About Cat Treats and Grain-Free Diets
Why do vets not recommend grain-free cat food?
It mainly comes down to one thing: heart health. More and more research is pointing to a connection between grain-free diets and a heart issue known as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in both cats and dogs. Although some grain-free recipes are safe, a lot of them swap in legumes or potatoes, which might fall short compared to the nutrients found in classic grains. Vets worry these substitutes don’t provide necessary nutrients, and could actually disrupt the protein-to-carb balance cats thrive on. Bottom line? It’s not about demonizing grain-free—it’s about making safer choices based on science.
Is grain-free actually good for cats?
Sometimes? But not always. Let’s break it down: cats are obligate carnivores. They need animal protein, not carbs—grain or grain-free. Many grain-free options simply swap out corn or wheat for peas, lentils, or potatoes—still carbs. So, grain-free isn’t automatically healthier. It depends on the full ingredient profile. If a food is loaded with quality meat and minimal fillers, great. If it’s just trading one carb for another, your cat’s not getting much benefit. So yes, grain-free can be fine, but only if the rest of the formula is species-appropriate.
Do vets recommend grain or grain-free?
Most vets don’t pledge allegiance to either side. Instead, they look at the bigger picture: is the food nutritionally balanced? Has it been tested? Does it support your cat’s health? Traditional grain-inclusive foods tend to be better-studied and less risky when it comes to DCM. So many vets lean toward them. But some cats have allergies or sensitivities—grain-free can help in those cases. The key is working with your vet to choose a reputable brand with the right ingredients for your cat’s unique needs.
Is it OK not to give cats treats?
Absolutely. Treats are optional—like dessert for us. Your cat won’t suffer without them. What matters most is complete, balanced meals. That said, treats can be useful for training, bonding, or distracting during claw trims. Just keep them under 10% of daily calories. If your cat’s on a special diet or has health issues like diabetes, skipping treats completely is often the safer route. So go ahead—be the treatless parent if you need to. Your cat will still love you. Eventually.
Healthier Smiles Start Here
We hope these dental treats for cats have helped you find the right crunchy companion for your kitty’s daily oral care routine. Whether you’re battling bad breath, tackling tartar, or just looking for a treat that serves more than one purpose — you’re now equipped with tasty solutions that actually work.
From plaque-fighting chews to grain-free bites packed with flavor, these options don’t just satisfy snack cravings — they actively promote better health. Let’s be honest, brushing a cat’s teeth isn’t anyone’s favorite chore. These treats may not replace a vet’s cleaning, but they sure do make dental maintenance a whole lot easier (and way less scratchy).
Your feline’s teeth deserve just as much love as their purrs and naps. So, go ahead — pick the treat that fits their vibe, whether they’re picky, playful, or totally pampered. Because dental treats for cats aren’t just a luxury — they’re a daily step toward a happier, healthier life.
