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OraVet Vs. Greenies: Which Dental Chew Is Better For Your Dog?
© Provided by The Spruce Pets Courtesy of Amazon It may be a chore, but keeping your dogs' teeth clean is vital to their health, since periodontal disease is the most commonly diagnosed doggy health problem. In addition to regular brushing, dental chews can help maintain your dog's teeth by rubbing away plaque. Two of the most popular are OraVet Hygiene Dental Chews and Greenies Dog Dental Care Chews.
Given to dogs once per day, each of these chews are designed to remove tartar and plaque from your dog's teeth. That helps prevent teeth problems and periodontal disease, which can evolve into kidney and liver disease if left untreated.
After a comprehensive comparison between the two top dental chews, we have good news: either are likely to help improve your dog's oral health. They're both approved by veterinarians, and they've each earned a spot on our list of best dental chews. But if we had to pick just one winner...
OraVet Hygiene Dental Chews
You can't go wrong with either of these—and doing anything to help your dog's teeth is certainly better than nothing—but our favorite is OraVet Hygiene Dental Chew. Those chews include delmopinol, which can protect your dog's teeth from further bacteria accumulation.
Greenies lack delmopinol, but its chews do provide a wider selection of flavors and uses. For you, it might just come down to which one your dog prefers. Ultimately, the better chew will be the one you use.
Versus Highlights OraVet Hygiene Dental Chews Greenies Dog Dental Care Chews Chews come in four sizes, for dogs 3.5 to 50 or more pounds Chews come in four sizes, for dogs 5–100 pounds Accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council Accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council Uses delmopinol, a compound that coats dogs' teeth and prevents plaque buildup Chews are available in packs of 3, 6, 12, 27, 36, 54, and 72 Chew is designed to scrub away plaque and debris from teeth Toothbrush-style grooves designed to scrape off plaque and tartar Eliminates bad breath Chews come in different flavors, including sweet potato, mint, and blueberry flavor Chews are individually wrapped Freshens breath OraVet Hygiene Dental Chews for Medium Dogs
© Provided by The Spruce Pets Buy at Chewy.Com
Buy at Amazon.Com
Who It's For: Dog owners who want an easy way to help clean their dogs' teeth. OraVet's biggest selling point is its inclusion of delmopinol, which coats a dog's teeth to ideally prevent the buildup of bacteria that, in turn, leads to more plaque and tartar. The product's chewy texture helps remove plaque and tartar from the teeth.
Individually wrapped to ensure freshness, the chews should only be given to dogs once per day. They're accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for tartar removal, and the chews should eliminate bad breath, too.
Price at time of publish: $38
Treat sizes available: four, for dogs ranging from 3.5 to 50-plus poundsMain ingredient: delmopinolCalories: 80.5 calories per medium chewNutrition: 46.41% min protein, 2.55% min fat, 0.69% max crude fiber, 13.98% max moisture
Greenies Original Regular Natural Dental Dog Treats
© Provided by The Spruce Pets Buy at Amazon.Com
Buy at Chewy.Com
Who It's For: Dog owners looking for variety in their pups' dental chews. Greenies' chews, with its standard toothbrush-style grooves, are made to scrape off debris that fester on pups' teeth. Your pup may enjoy their standard flavor, but Greenies has several other options for dogs with more eclectic palates.
First, there are the sweet potato- and blueberry-flavored chews, but you can also purchase Greenies' "Fresh" chews, made with natural spearmint to give your dog a pleasant, minty breath. Need to keep your dog's weight in check, the weight-management chews with fewer calories can help.
The VOHC has approved Greenies' products for plaque and tartar removal.
Price at time of publish: $37
Treat sizes available: Teenie, petite, regular, largeMain ingredients: Wheat flour, glycerin, wheat gluten, gelatinCalories: 91 calories per regular original treatNutrition: 30% min protein, 5.5% min fat, 8% max crude fiber, 6% max moisture
OraVet vs. Greenies Results Design and FunctionalityWinner: OraVet
OraVet gets the edge here for both plaque and tartar removal as well as the bacteria prevention from the delmopinol. That's a lot of peace of mind from just one treat per day.
Again, that's not to say the Greenies chew isn't bad. By most accounts, it's an excellent, vet-recommended option, too. It may even be better if you're trying to manage your dog's weight or improve their stinky breath.
ValueWinner: Greenies
You can get a 36-pack of the Greenies chews for the same (or cheaper) price as the 30-pack OraVet chews. It's minor, sure, but six additional days of chews ain't nothing. That's why Greenies gets the nod here.
As mentioned before, Greenies also offers a wide variety of dental chews while OraVet only provides its one chew in different sizes.
SafetyWinner: Tie
Anytime you introduce a new treat or food to your pup, make sure you keep an eye on their digestion as they make the switch. A minority of online reviewers reported their dogs experiencing vomiting and diarrhea after trying each of the chews, so you want to be aware just in case. (Green poop was another side effect.)
You'll also want to make sure your dogs are eating the right size of chew according to their weight. Make sure they're not biting off too-large pieces either.
Every dog's digestive system is different, so it's always a good idea to check with your veterinarian before switching to a new product.
Why trust The Spruce PetsAustin Cannon is an editor for The Spruce Pets, and he's written and edited hundreds of pet health and behavior articles for nearly three years. His passion for dogs extends back to the eighth grade, when his family adopted a standard poodle named Riley (who loved a good dental treat).
Read Next:The 9 Best Dental Chews for Dogs of 2023
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Pet Dental Insurance Explained
Key pointsDental health is important, not just for humans, but also for our pets. Besides eating, pets use their teeth to play and pick up items, making them more prone to accidents. The cost of pet dental care can be expensive, especially if your pet has an accident or illness that affects its teeth.
Sedation, X-rays, antibiotics, medication and other costs associated with dental care can quickly add up. A pet insurance policy is one option to help lower your out-of-pocket expenses after an accident or illness.
While you can't buy pet dental insurance as a stand-alone policy, most of the best pet insurance companies include dental insurance in their accident and illness plans. Having the right pet dental coverage in place can help offset the cost of any oral health emergencies or illnesses your pet may experience.
What does pet dental insurance cover?Pet insurance typically covers your dog or cat's dental accidents or illnesses, depending on the plan you choose. An accident-only plan will provide coverage for dental accidents, but not illnesses. If you buy a comprehensive pet insurance plan, it will cover both dental accidents and illnesses.
A policy with pet dental insurance will usually cover:
The type of dental procedures covered will ultimately depend on the pet insurance company and the plan you choose. For instance, AKC covers dental accidents, but not illnesses. Lemonade only covers dental illnesses if you purchase add-on coverage. Always read your policy thoroughly and ask your insurer any questions you have about coverage.
What isn't covered by pet dental insurance?Most pet insurance policies won't cover pre-existing conditions, dental or otherwise, that occurred prior to the policy's effective date or coverage waiting period. Aesthetic, cosmetic, endodontic or orthodontic dental services, like caps, fillings, implants or planing are also not covered, according to Scott Taylor, President of Spot Pet Insurance.
What about your annual visit to the vet or a teeth cleaning? A standard pet insurance policy won't include those types of costs either, unless you buy a wellness plan.
A pet wellness plan covers routine preventive care, including teeth cleanings, vaccinations, wellness exams and flea and tick medications. You may be able to add a wellness plan to your pet insurance or buy a standalone wellness plan if you don't want coverage for dental illness or injury.
"Dental illnesses in your dog or cat could expand into major health and behavior challenges," warns Taylor of Spot Pet Insurance. A wellness plan add-on or standalone policy typically covers an annual tooth cleaning. Regular brushing can also help prevent dental illnesses in your pet.
Which pet insurance covers dental procedures?Most pet insurance companies cover care for dental accidents and illnesses. The coverage limit and reimbursement amount can vary by company and insurance plan.
If you're looking for a pet insurance plan that includes dental coverage for accidents and illnesses, consider one of these pet insurance companies:
Looking for pet insurance? Best Cheap Pet Insurance of 2023
Is pet dental insurance worth it?Getting pet insurance with dental coverage may be worth the cost, especially since periodontal disease is one of the most common diseases in both cats and dogs.
The average pet insurance claim for periodontal disease in dogs is $1,942, based on claims to C&F Insurance Agency between 2017 and 2020. And a study by the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry found that by age 2, 70% of cats and 80% of dogs have some degree of periodontal disease.
A standard pet insurance policy with dental coverage can also help you pay for accidents that may occur, such as a broken tooth caused by a rigorous game of fetch or a hard bite on a bone.
Common dental illnesses and injuries in dogs and cats"The most common dental issues in dogs are periodontal (gum) disease and tooth fractures," says Dr. Richard Walther, DVM, Veterinary Advisor at Pawlicy Advisor. "In cats, the most common issues are stomatitis and tooth resorption."
Gingivitis is another common issue seen in pets, advises Sarah Wallace, Vice President of Telehealth at Galaxy Vets. She recommends talking with your dog's veterinarian to determine the best hard bones and toys to avoid tooth fractures.
Your pet's breed may also predispose them to dental issues. For example, brachycephalic and toy dog breeds can have unerupted teeth, says Dr. Paola Cuevas, veterinarian and behaviorist. The deciduous teeth may need to be removed to allow the unerupted teeth to come down. If not, the closely packed teeth will retain food particles and tartar.
How much does dog or cat teeth cleaning cost?Drs. Cuevas and Walther estimate the cost of a dog's teeth cleaning between $500 and $1,000. For cats, a teeth cleaning could cost anywhere from $100 to $400.
That doesn't include related costs, Walther warns. You may also need to pay for X-rays, anesthesia, antibiotics, pain medications or extractions. "It's not uncommon for dental cleanings to add up to between $1,000 and $3,000 for the complete bill of services."
How to find affordable pet dental careBuying pet insurance is one way to get affordable pet dental care. Although routine cleanings aren't covered unless you have a wellness plan, pet insurance with dental coverage can help offset the cost of dental accidents and illnesses.
There are other ways you can improve the health of your pet's teeth and make the cost of dental care more manageable.
Preventative dental careOne of the best ways to prevent dental disease in your pet is daily brushing. Although it's not always feasible, Dr. Walther recommends brushing your pet's teeth at least three times per week. Using an enzymatic toothpaste is ideal, as it can break down bacteria and prevent tartar from forming, says Dr. Cuevas.
Wallace also advises asking your vet about proper toothbrush training and technique. "It will be a new and possibly scary experience at first until you get them used to it, so slow but consistent training is essential."
Dental chews approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, or nutritional additives that have been proven to break down plaque with digestive enzymes, can also help to prevent dental disease, says Walther. Cuevas recommends working with your vet to find the right food, as diet can also impact dental health.
Both veterinarians agree that at least once yearly professional dental cleanings are essential. They can remove bacterial build-up below the gum line, scale tartar and identify damaged teeth or root decay with X-rays.
Financing optionsAlthough pet insurance is one way to afford dental care for your pet, it's not the only option.
Some veterinarians offer financing options, including:
If you use one of these options, you may have to pay interest, which will increase the cost of your pet's dental care. Financing companies like CareCredit offer promotional periods with no interest for up to two years, depending on the amount financed. But if you don't pay your CareCredit balance before the promotional period ends, you'll be charged interest from the original purchase date.
For underserved communities, Wallace recommends AlignCare, though it's only available for emergency cases. This resource is available through the Program for Pet Health Equity. You can check for other community-based programs that may be available in your area.
Create a savings accountThere's also the option of creating a savings account dedicated to your pet's care. Even with pet insurance, you are still responsible for deductibles and coinsurance percentages. Having funds set aside can make checking out at the vet's office easier.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is dental insurance for dogs worth it?With 80% of dogs showing signs of periodontal disease by the age of 2, it may be worth buying dental insurance for your dog. Untreated dental disease could cause other health problems, increasing your vet bills over your dog's lifetime. Comparing the out-of-pocket cost of veterinary care to the savings with pet insurance may help you determine if dental insurance for dogs is worth it.
How often should a dog get a dental treat?You should speak with your vet to determine how often a dog should get a dental treat. All treats should be part of a well-balanced diet. If your dog doesn't chew the treat, it may not offer much dental benefit. Dog chew toys, food and treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council are the best choice for dental health.
What pet insurance has the best dental coverage?Determining what is most important to you can help you find the best pet insurance with dental coverage. If the cost of pet insurance is most important, consider getting several quotes from different companies to find the cheapest option.
You may also want to consider out-of-pocket costs, not just the price of the insurance plan. Most insurance companies offer a single annual deductible to meet. However, State Farm and Trupanion have a per-condition deductible, which means you could be out of pocket more if your pet has different dental problems in the same plan year.
5 Best Cat Treats For A Happy, Healthy Pet
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If you're looking for ways to bond with your cat, the way to their heart is often through their stomach. "Giving treats to your cat can help strengthen the bond between you and your pet," said Dr. Nicole Savageau, VMD, veterinarian at The Vets, a mobile veterinary service. Cat treats can also be used to train your pet, reward good behavior and calm them down in stressful situations.
There are many types of cat treats available, but the best option will depend on your pet's preferences and individual needs, say experts. To help narrow down the choices, we asked veterinarians what key elements to look for when choosing cat treats and when and how to offer them to your pet. These experts also shared their personal recommendations with us.
Our top picks How we picked the best cat treatsAccording to the veterinarians we spoke to, there are several factors to look for when choosing cat treats:
Nutrition: Cat treats are designed to supplement your pet's regular diet and shouldn't make up more than 10% of their daily calories. The number of calories per treat will determine how many you can give your cat each day, and it's often beneficial to select a low-calorie option if your pet is overweight. Some cat treats also offer additional health benefits, such as hairball control or tartar reduction. Look for cat treats that contain a source of high-quality protein, such as chicken, turkey, beef or fish.
Texture and flavor: Cat treats come in a variety of textures, including crunchy, soft and lickable formulas. You may need to try different options to find which texture your cat prefers. Similarly, many cat treats are available in several flavor options, such as beef, chicken, salmon or tuna, and your cat may prefer certain flavors over others.
Cost and availability: For the most part, you'll be able to find a pack of cat treats available for under $20. The ones we chose are also available on Amazon and Chewy, making shipping and delivery fairly stress-free.
If your cat has any medical conditions, it's important to consult with your veterinarian before adding new food — including treats — to their diet. Your vet will be able to recommend specific treats that will support your pet's individual needs.
Related: We've rounded up nutritious options that will keep your feline friend healthy and satisfied.
The best cat treats in April 2023Below is a roundup of expert-recommended cat treats, as well as several highly rated products based on expert guidance. The products we selected are low in calories and contain high-quality ingredients, and we included options in a variety of textures to suit your cat's preferences.
Best overall cat treats Temptations Classic Crunchy and Soft Cat TreatsSavageau said she gives Temptations treats to her own cats and that many of her feline patients enjoy these treats as well, noting that they're often accepted by picky eaters. They have a crunchy outer shell with a soft center, and the treats come in a wide variety of flavors, including tuna, chicken, salmon, turkey, beef and more. Each treat contains just 2 calories, and they're formulated with vitamins and taurine to support your cat's health. I've given Temptations treats to my cats for many years, and they've always loved the crunchy consistency and meaty flavors.
Package size: 30 ouncesType: CrunchyCalories: 2 kcal/treat
Temptations Classic Crunchy and Soft Cat Treats
Temptations Classic Crunchy and Soft Cat Treats (Amazon / Amazon)
Temptations Classic Crunchy and Soft Cat Treats $ at Amazon
Temptations Classic Crunchy and Soft Cat Treats $ at Chewy
Temptations Classic Crunchy and Soft Cat Treats $ at Walmart
Lickable treats come in small tubes, and they can be squeezed onto your cat's regular food or fed by hand, offering a great way to interact with your pet. "We love to use Churu treats in the clinic when seeing our patients. [They are] a soft food treat that cats love," said Savageau. "They are only 6 calories for one tube." These treats are made from human-grade ingredients, including farm-raised chicken and wild-caught tuna, says the brand. There are also variety packs available. The formula is free from grains, preservatives and artificial colors and contains 91% moisture, which makes it a hydrating treat for your pet.
Package size: 20 0.5-ounce tubesType: LickableCalories: 6 kcal/tube
INABA Churu Cat Treats
INABA Churu Cat Treats (Amazon / Amazon)
INABA Churu Cat Treats $ at Amazon
INABA Churu Cat Treats $ at Chewy
INABA Churu Cat Treats $ at Walmart
Dr. Kim DiMaio, VMD, veterinarian and owner of MainStreetVet.Net, said that many cats prefer soft or moist cat treats, which are easier for them to chew. Meow Mix Irresistibles have a soft texture, and these popular treats contain just 2 calories per piece. They come in salmon or chicken flavor, both of which are made with real meat, and they're a budget-friendly option for your pet.
Package size: 12 ouncesType: SoftCalories: 2 kcal/treat
Meow Mix Irresistibles Soft Cat Treats
Meow Mix Irresistibles Soft Cat Treats (Walmart / Walmart)
Meow Mix Irresistibles Soft Cat Treats $ at Walmart
Meow Mix Irresistibles Soft Cat Treats $ at Chewy
Both veterinarians we spoke to recommended Feline Greenies as a dental treat. These cat treats are accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, meeting the council's standards for preventing tartar buildup on your cat's teeth. The treats don't contain any artificial flavors or preservatives, and they are only 2 calories each. However, Savageau noted that cats must actually chew the pieces, not swallow them whole, for the treats to be effective.
Package size: 9.5 ouncesType: CrunchyCalories: 1.4 kcal/treat
Feline Greenies Adult Dental Cat Treats
Feline Greenies Adult Dental Cat Treats (Amazon / Amazon)
Feline Greenies Adult Dental Cat Treats $ at Amazon
Feline Greenies Adult Dental Cat Treats $ at Chewy
Feline Greenies Adult Dental Cat Treats $ at Walmart
If your cat has a sensitive stomach, the Purina Fancy Feast Natural Cat Treats are highly palatable, as they contain just one ingredient. These treats are each made from protein, like chicken, tuna and salmon, and the meat is cooked and flaked, then packaged in convenient pouches that keep the contents fresh. You can purchase a variety pack or a single flavor, and all of the options contain zero byproducts or fillers, minimizing the risk that they'll upset your cat's digestive system.
Package size: 10 1-ounce packagesType: FlakedCalories: 3.3-4 kcal/package
Purina Fancy Feast Natural Cat Treats 5-Pack
Purina Fancy Feast Natural Cat Treats 5-Pack (Amazon / Amazon)
Purina Fancy Feast Natural Cat Treats 5-Pack $ at Amazon
Related: We consulted with experts to help you find the best litter box for your feline friends.
How to shop for cat treatsWhen comparing treats for your pet, DiMaio explained that the goal is to find something that's both "tasty and healthy." It may take some trial and error to find a treat that your cat responds to enthusiastically, but there are several things you'll want to look for when you shop. Here are the most important factors to keep in mind:
Calories. According to the VCA, which operates more than 1,000 animal hospitals in the U.S. And Canada, almost 60% of domestic cats are overweight, which can shorten their lifespan and make them more prone to diseases. To keep your cat at a healthy weight, it's important to avoid overfeeding them, and this includes both food and treats. Our experts explained that calories from treats should make up less than 10% of your cat's daily caloric intake, and in general, they recommended looking for treats that are low in calories — there are many products that contain just 1 or 2 calories per piece. However, keep in mind that it's still possible to overfeed your cat with low-calorie treats: "It's important to read the feeding guidelines on the treat packaging and consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions," said Savageau.
Ingredients. Treats that are made from nutritious ingredients are generally better for your cat. Our experts recommended looking for treats made with high-quality protein, such as chicken, turkey, beef or fish, as cats are carnivores. "Treats with high amounts of sugar, fat or carbohydrates should be avoided," said DiMaio. Our experts also said to steer clear of products with artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
Texture and flavor. If you're planning to use treats to bond with your cat, reinforce behaviors or calm them down in stressful situations, it's beneficial to find a product that they really love. You may have to try out different treat textures and flavors to find an option that your cat goes crazy for. "Some cats prefer crunchy treats, while others prefer soft and chewy treats," said Savageau. There are also lickable treats that come in small pouches, and because this style contains more moisture, it can help keep your cat hydrated if they don't drink enough water on their own.
Health benefits. Savageau noted that certain treats can support joint health, skin and coat health, digestive health, dental health and more. If you're specifically looking for dental treats, DiMaio recommends selecting a product that's approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, which sets standards for efficacy when it comes to plaque and tartar control.
Yes, cat treats can be given daily, but it's important to follow feeding guidelines. "Treats should be given in moderation and as part of a balanced diet," said Savageau, noting that your cat's main source of nutrition should be their regular cat food. "Overfeeding treats can lead to weight gain and other health problems."
Do cats need treats?No, treats are not necessary for cats. A complete and balanced cat food is all your cat needs to eat on a daily basis. However, there are situations when cat treats come in handy. "They can be especially useful during stressful events, such as vet visits or car rides," said Savageau. "Giving your cat a treat can help distract them from the stressful situation and provide a positive association with the experience." Treats can also be an effective way to bond with or train your pet.
Meet our expertsAt Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Dr. Nicole Savageau, VMD, is a veterinarian who works with The Vets, a mobile veterinary service operating in several major U.S. Cities. Her special interests include feline medicine, preventative medicine, exotic animal medicine, soft tissue surgery and cytology.
Dr. Kim DiMaio, VMD, is a veterinarian and the owner of MainStreetVet.Net, a veterinary hospital with two locations in southeastern Pennsylvania. She practices fear-free medicine and has an interest in internal medicine, behavior and geriatrics.
Camryn Rabideau has been covering pet products for more than six years, and she's owned several cats throughout her life. While researching this article, she spoke with two veterinarians who offered guidance on how to select healthy treats your cat will enjoy, as well as recommendations for specific products. She also researched dozens of highly rated treats and selected them for this list based on expert guidance.
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Originally published April 6, 2023 at 11:11 AM
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