Chapter 5: Dental Treats — Options Beyond Brushing
Dental chews and sticks can help scrape plaque from teeth, but they are not a substitute for brushing, and not all pets can safely use them. Choose products with a recognised dental claim and a shape and size matched to your pet — too hard a chew can fracture teeth, and too small a piece can be swallowed whole. In Malaysia's humid climate, store dental chews sealed and dry; soft or mouldy chews should be discarded. Some dental treats are high in calories, so reduce the main meal slightly on days you give them. Never give cooked bones, and avoid antler or hoove chews that are harder than teeth. If your pet has bad breath, tartar, or bleeding gums, see your vet — dental disease is common in Malaysian pets and needs proper assessment, not just chews.