Maintaining your cat's oral health can be a challenge. Brushing their teeth is often tricky and most cats aren't exactly thrilled about having their mouth handled! While chew toys cannot, and should not replace toothbrushing and dental cleanings, they can be a simple, fun way to support kitty's dental health while giving them an outlet to play and fulfil their natural hunting instincts.
Here's how chew toys for cats can help and ways you can make them part of your cat’s routine.
Do cats actually need dental care?
Dental health is one of the most commonly overlooked parts of cat care, even though it plays a huge role in their overall wellbeing. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to discomfort, gum issues, and more serious problems if ignored.
Some common signs your cat might need an oral checkup include:
- Bad breath
- Reduced interest in food
- Pawing at the mouth
- Red or irritated gums
- Excessive drooling
- Less playful behaviour
If you notice any signs of dental issues, we recommend booking a visit with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
How do chew toys help support dental health in cats?
Chew toys work through simple mechanics. When your cat bites and gnaws the toy, it creates gentle friction against the teeth. This action can help reduce plaque buildup and keep teeth feeling cleaner over time.
Chew toys can support your cat's dental health by:
- Gently scraping away soft plaque
- Stimulating gums and improving circulation
- Encouraging natural chewing instincts
- Providing a fun, safe alternative to destructive chewing
- Freshening breath
They also offer other benefits to your cat, such as providing mental stimulation, relieving stress or boredom, and simulating capturing prey.
What kind of chew toys should I look for?
When shopping for chew toys, it’s important to prioritize your cat’s safety, ensuring the toys are appropriate for their size.
Look for toys that are:
- Made specifically for cats
- Appropriately sized for your cat's mouth (large enough that it won’t be swallowed, but small enough for your cat to comfortably bite)
- Durable but gentle on the teeth
- Interesting in texture or shape (for example, a silvervine stick or 100% wool toy)
- Designed to be safely chewed
How does meowbox make chew toys easier to try?
Cat subscription meowbox delivers fun themed toys and tasty treats to your door every month, or bi-monthly. Toys are designed to encourage natural hunting behaviours like stalking, pouncing, batting and yes, chewing too!
With meowbox, your cat gets:
- A fresh selection of toys and treats every month (every-other-month plans are also available)
- Fun, engaging toy designs that spark curiosity
- Variety in textures, shapes and play styles
- New opportunities to explore
It’s an easy way to keep your cat happy and healthy through regular enrichment.
Can chew toys replace brushing or vet care?
Chew toys can help support your cat's dental health, but they aren't a replacement for proper dental care.
Chew toys work best when supplemented with:
- Regular veterinary checkups (at least once a year, or more often as advised by your veterinarian if your cat has health issues that need frequent monitoring)
- Regular toothbrushing
- A balanced diet
- Other dental care routines your vet recommends
- Daily play and enrichment
How can I encourage my cat to use chew toys?
Some cats take to chew toys right away, while others need a little encouragement.
Try these tips:
- Introduce new toys during active playtime (when they have the zoomies)
- Rotate toys weekly to keep things exciting
- Place toys near their favourite resting or play areas
- Let your cat explore at their own pace
Silvervine is a popular addition to chew toys for cats, and elicits in most kitties a similar euphoric response to catnip.
What’s the easiest way to add chew toys into my cat’s routine?
Cat box subscription (monthly or bi-monthly plans available), meowbox
Consistency and variety are key. Rotating out your cat's toy options regularly through a cat subscription box provides novelty and keeps playtime exciting.
Each meowbox brings a new mix of toys that are specifically designed to stimulate your cat's natural hunting instincts like chasing, pouncing, bunny kicking, and satisfying the urge to chew.
If you’re looking for an easy way to keep kitty happy and healthy through play, try meowbox for your cat here!