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Good homecare can make a big difference to your pet's teeth and gums. It won't replace a professional dental clean, but using a few of the options below regularly will help keep your pet's mouth healthier, and their breath fresher, between visits.
Dental Homecare Products We Recommend
Not sure where to start? Every pet is different. Our team is happy to look at your pet's mouth and help you put together a homecare plan that suits them and you.
1. Toothbrushing
Brushing is the gold standard of dental homecare because it physically removes plaque from the teeth. To be effective it needs to be done daily, and you can start as soon as tomorrow.
- Use a soft brush. A child's toothbrush, a pet toothbrush or a finger brush all work well.
- Use a toothpaste made for pets. It is safe to swallow and comes in flavours like chicken and beef.
- Never use human toothpaste. It is not safe for pets to swallow.
DogsPetosan Toothbrush and Oral Cleaner
A double headed brush that cleans the front and back of the teeth at the same time, plus a soft finger cloth that is a great way to get pets used to brushing. We stock this in clinic.
Learn more about Petosan Products2. Dental Diets
Feeding a dental diet is the next best thing to brushing. These foods are scientifically formulated, and several carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal for reducing plaque or tartar. They work best when fed as your pet's main diet.
For Dogs
DogsRoyal Canin Dental
The kibble shape and texture give a brushing effect as it is eaten. It also contains polyphosphates, which bind calcium in saliva so plaque is less likely to harden into tartar. Available in small dog and medium to large dog sizes.
Learn more about Royal Canin Dental
DogsDelicate Care Dental Diet
Australian made and vet exclusive. The dog formula is fish based and hypoallergenic, which makes it a great option for dogs with sensitive skin who also need dental support.
Learn more about Delicate Care
DogsHill's Prescription Diet t/d
Large kibble with a fibre matrix that scrubs the tooth surface as your pet chews, cleaning right up to the gum line. Clinically proven to reduce plaque, stain and tartar. A Small Bites version is available for smaller dogs.
Learn more about Hill's t/dFor Cats
CatsRoyal Canin Dental Cat
Kibble sized and textured for cats, giving a brushing effect as it is eaten. Contains polyphosphates to help stop plaque hardening into tartar.
Learn more about Royal Canin Dental Cat
Cats? Staff favouriteDelicate Care Feline Dental Diet
Australian made and vet exclusive. Made with over 90% Australian ingredients, using chicken and whole sorghum for a low carbohydrate, easy to digest diet. Suitable for all life stages.
Learn more about Delicate Care
CatsHill's Prescription Diet t/d Feline
The cat version of t/d. Larger kibble with the same fibre matrix that scrubs the teeth as your cat chews, cleaning up to the gum line. Clinically proven to reduce plaque, stain and tartar, and VOHC accepted.
Learn more about Hill's t/d FelineSome of these are veterinary diets. Please chat with our team before switching your pet's food, especially if they have other health conditions.
3. Dental Treats and Chews
Most supermarket and pet store treats are not very effective, although every little bit helps. The products below are the ones we recommend for real dental benefit.
Dogs? Staff favouriteOravet Dental Hygiene Chews
A daily chew with a double action. Chewing scrubs the teeth, and the active ingredient delmopinol forms a barrier that stops bacteria sticking to the teeth. Sized by weight. Suitable for dogs over 6 months, and keep them away from cats.
Learn more about Oravet
DogsDelicate Care Hypoallergenic Dental Treats
Shaped for good mechanical cleaning, with added ingredients to help reduce tartar and freshen breath. Suitable for dogs with food intolerances, sensitive skin or tummy troubles.
Learn more about Delicate Care
CatsFeline Greenies Dental Treats
A crunchy, grooved treat that cleans teeth as your cat chews. VOHC accepted for tartar reduction and under 2 calories per treat. For cats 1 year and older. Remember to adjust their main meal to allow for treats.
Learn more about Greenies4. Water Additive
A water additive is one of the easiest options for pets who won't tolerate brushing. Simply add it to the water bowl each time you refill it.
Dogs and cats? Staff favourite
Oxyfresh Water Additive
Contains a patented blend of Oxygene and zinc that helps neutralise the bacteria behind bad breath, reduces plaque build up and supports gum health. Tasteless and odourless, so it suits fussy dogs and cats.
Learn more about Oxyfresh5. Food Supplement
A powder sprinkled on your pet's food once a day. A good add on for pets already on a dental routine.
Dogs and catsPlaqueOff Powder
A natural seaweed based powder that works through the saliva to soften existing tartar and help stop new plaque sticking to the teeth. Results are usually seen within 3 to 8 weeks of daily use. Not suitable for pets with thyroid conditions, so please check with us first.
Learn more about PlaqueOffHomecare works best as a team effort. Combining two or three of these options, alongside regular dental checks, gives your pet the best chance of a healthy mouth for life.
Ready for a dental check?
Book online or call us on 9631 9322. Most of these products are available at the clinic.
