Best Flavors of Dental Treats Cats Actually Love

petparadise959
Apr 30
4 min read

When it comes to cat care, dental health often slips under the radar. But just like us, our feline companions need proper oral hygiene to avoid issues like plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath. Thankfully, the best dental treats for cats not only support their dental health but also come in irresistible flavors that keep them purring for more. But which ones do cats actually enjoy the most?

In this article, we’ll break down the most popular flavors of cat dental treats, explore why flavor matters, and recommend some of the best cat dental treats that are both tasty and effective.

Why Dental Treats Are a Must for Your Cat

Before we dive into the flavors, let’s talk about why dental treats are essential in the first place:

Reduce plaque and tartar buildup
Freshen breath
Promote gum health
Provide a tasty way to supplement daily oral hygiene

Regular brushing is ideal, but let's be honest—most cats aren’t lining up with their mouths open. Dental treats are a more feline-approved solution.

Flavor Matters More Than You Think

Cats are famously picky eaters. If a dental treat doesn't pass their flavor test, it won’t matter how effective it is—it’ll just sit untouched in the bowl. The best cat dental treats balance health benefits with flavors that mimic natural prey or favorite foods.

Below are the top flavors that cats actually enjoy—and keep coming back for.

1. Tuna: The Reigning Champ of Cat Flavors

Tuna-flavored dental treats consistently top the charts in terms of feline popularity. The strong aroma and taste are close to what cats might experience in a fresh catch, appealing to their carnivorous instincts.

Top Pick: 🟢 Greenies Feline Dental Treats – Savory Salmon Flavor (yes, it’s salmon not tuna, but they also have a tuna option!). These treats have a crunchy texture that scrapes away plaque and are vet-recommended.

Bonus: Tuna contains omega-3 fatty acids that support joint and skin health.

2. Chicken: A Universal Favorite

Chicken is a go-to protein in both wet and dry cat food, so it’s no surprise it also makes for one of the best flavors of dental treats. Most cats are already accustomed to it, making transition easy.

Top Pick: 🟣 Feline Greenies Dental Treats – Oven-Roasted Chicken Flavor. They help reduce tartar while keeping your cat hooked with a familiar taste.

3. Seafood Medley: For the Fancy Feline

Seafood blends—featuring shrimp, crab, salmon, or a combo—offer a more gourmet experience. These flavors are especially great for picky eaters who turn their nose up at simpler options.

Top Pick: 🔵 Whiskas Temptations Dentabites – Seafood Medley Flavor. These crunchy treats are packed with flavor and scientifically proven to reduce tartar buildup.

4. Beef: The Bold and Meaty Option

Beef isn’t as common in cat treats as chicken or tuna, but some cats go crazy for it. It’s a great choice if your cat has shown a preference for red meat flavors.

Top Pick: 🟠 Purina DentaLife – Beef Flavor Dental Treats. Made with a porous texture that allows the tooth to penetrate, cleaning it more effectively.

5. Catnip-Infused: The Playful Twist

This is a newer trend, but catnip-infused dental treats are rapidly gaining popularity. Catnip attracts attention, and once the cat starts chewing, they get the dental benefits too.

Top Pick: 🟡 Meowijuana Munchie Dental Treats – Chicken & Catnip Fusion. These unique treats offer a dual benefit—dental care and a mild euphoric buzz.

6. Cheese or Dairy-Inspired Treats

While cats are lactose-intolerant to some degree, many dental treats use dairy flavoring without actual lactose. These can be a great alternative for cats who go nuts over cheese or creamy tastes.

Top Pick: 🟢 Hartz Dentist's Best – Cheesy Chicken Flavor. Specially designed to reduce tartar, and cats love the cheesy twist.

7. Turkey: The Holiday Favorite

Turkey-flavored dental treats offer a lean protein alternative to chicken. It’s often found in hypoallergenic or sensitive-stomach formulas.

Top Pick: 🟣 VetIQ Minties Dental Treats – Turkey & Cranberry Flavor. These offer a seasonal twist and include ingredients that freshen breath naturally.

Flavors to Avoid (And Why)

Not every flavor is a winner. Here are a few that tend to flop with feline taste buds:

❌ Mint: While mint freshens breath, most cats dislike the flavor and will refuse to chew mint-flavored treats.
❌ Vegetables: Cats are obligate carnivores. Pea, carrot, or spinach-flavored treats may sound healthy, but cats often ignore them.

What Makes a Dental Treat Effective?

While flavor keeps your cat interested, the texture, shape, and ingredients determine effectiveness. Look for:

VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) Seal
Crunchy or porous textures that clean teeth
Natural ingredients with minimal fillers
Limited artificial flavors or colors

The best dental treats for cats combine enticing flavors with a structure that promotes real oral benefits.

Switching Flavors Without Upsetting Tummies

Introducing new flavors should be done gradually. Start by mixing new treats with existing favorites. Monitor your cat for any signs of digestive upset like vomiting or diarrhea, and reduce or discontinue use if needed.

Many of these retailers also offer auto-ship discounts, helping you save money and avoid last-minute runs for treats.

Pro Tip: Don’t Rely on Treats Alone

While dental treats are incredibly helpful, they should be part of a broader dental hygiene routine that includes:

Regular vet dental checkups
Brushing your cat’s teeth (when possible)
Dental water additives or oral sprays

If your cat has advanced dental disease, consult your vet before introducing treats.

Quick Recap: Best Flavors Cats Love in Dental Treats

Flavor	Why Cats Love It	Best Product
Tuna	Strong aroma, high palatability	Greenies Tuna
Chicken	Familiar & mild	Feline Greenies Chicken
Seafood Medley	Gourmet blend	Temptations Dentabites
Beef	Bold and meaty	DentaLife Beef
Catnip Infused	Playful twist	Meowijuana Chicken
Cheese	Creamy and unique	Hartz Cheesy Chicken
Turkey	Seasonal, lean	VetIQ Minties Turkey

Final Thoughts

Finding the right dental treat is a balance between effectiveness and flavor. Cats can be finicky, so it may take a little trial and error. But once you find the flavor that sticks, it becomes an effortless part of their daily routine. Remember, the best dental treats for cats are the ones your cat will actually eat—and love.

Because when your cat's teeth are healthy, they’re happier, more playful, and more affectionate—and isn’t that what we all want?