Why Pet Dental Health Matters More Than You Think
Did you know that by age 3, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease? Plaque and tartar buildup doesn't just cause bad breath — it can lead to painful tooth loss, gum infections, and even heart and kidney disease if bacteria enter the bloodstream.
The good news? Preventing dental disease at home is easier than most pet owners think.
How to Brush Your Pet's Teeth at Home
Brushing remains the gold standard for pet dental hygiene — but it takes patience and consistency.
What you'll need:
- A pet-safe toothbrush (finger brush or angled brush)
- Pet-formulated toothpaste (never use human toothpaste — xylitol is toxic to pets)
Step-by-step:
- Start slow — Let your pet sniff and lick the toothpaste first to get comfortable
- Lift the lip — Gently lift your pet's lip to expose the teeth and gums
- Brush in circles — Focus on the outer surfaces where plaque builds up most
- Keep it short — Aim for 30–60 seconds per session, especially at first
- Reward immediately — Always follow with praise or a treat to build a positive association
Ideal frequency: Daily brushing is best, but even 3–4 times per week makes a significant difference.
The Challenge With Brushing
Let's be honest — most pets don't love having their teeth brushed. Many owners struggle to maintain a consistent routine, especially with cats or anxious dogs. If your pet resists brushing, you're not alone — and you're not out of options.
How C.E.T. Enzymatic Chews Work
C.E.T. Enzymatic Chews by Virbac are the #1 vet-recommended dental chew for a reason. They use a dual-enzyme system — glucose oxidase and lactoperoxidase — that works naturally with your pet's saliva to fight plaque and tartar every single day.
Here's what makes them different from regular dental treats:
- 🦷 Enzymatic action — The enzymes actively break down plaque-forming bacteria, not just scrub the surface
- 🐾 Rawhide texture — The chewing action provides mechanical cleaning similar to brushing
- 😋 Pets love them — Available in a palatable flavour dogs enjoy, making daily compliance easy
- 📏 4 sizes available — XSmall, Small, Medium, and Large to fit every breed
One chew per day is all it takes to support your pet's dental health — no wrestling required.
C.E.T. Chews vs Brushing: Which Is Better?
| Brushing | C.E.T. Enzymatic Chews | |
|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Pet compliance | Hard for many pets | Easy — pets love them |
| Daily commitment | 1–2 minutes | 1 chew |
| Vet recommended | ✅ | ✅ |
| Best for | Cooperative pets | All pets, especially resistant ones |
Our recommendation: Use both when possible. Brush a few times a week and give a C.E.T. chew daily for maximum protection. If brushing isn't realistic for your pet, C.E.T. Chews are an excellent standalone option endorsed by veterinarians.
Shop C.E.T. Enzymatic Chews — Delivered Across Canada
C.E.T. Enzymatic Chews are now available at PetMedsToYourHome.ca in all four sizes. Free delivery on orders over $99.
